GCC urges Lau to support changes to the 2013 Constitution

The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has called on the people of Lau to support proposed changes to the 2013 Constitution, reaffirming that it does not support the current Constitution and urging communities to back constitutional reform when the opportunity arises.

In a report presented to delegates at the Lau Provincial Council meeting yesterday, the GCC encouraged provincial leaders to mobilise support for constitutional amendments if a referendum is held.

"The GCC has made it clear that it will not support the 2013 Constitution," the report said.

"When time comes for Government to hold a referendum, let us stand together and call for the necessary changes. I urge you, the leaders of Lau, to encourage your families and communities to support this important effort to change the Constitution."

The GCC said the 2013 Constitution did not give the iTaukei sufficient authority to fully exercise their customary rights.

In its submission to the Constitution Review Commission, the GCC proposed that the term "Fijian" be reserved exclusively for the iTaukei and that the Deed of Cession be incorporated into the Constitution.

The council also proposed constitutional recognition of the GCC, including the authority to appoint the President.

Other recommendations include restoring a bicameral Parliament with a Senate, reforming the electoral system to strengthen provincial representation, removing the Attorney-General from the Mercy Commission to reduce executive and political influence over presidential pardons, and removing the Constitution's immunity provisions.

A bicameral Parliament is a legislative system with two chambers, typically an upper house and a lower house.