iTaukei Bodies Review Tui Nadi Title Ruling

The iTaukei Lands Appeals Tribunal (ILAT) and the iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission (ILFC) are reviewing the recent High Court ruling on the Tui Nadi title dispute and will consult the Solicitor- General before making an official statement.

Ministry of iTaukei Affairs permanent secretary Pita Tagicakirewa confirmed this in response to inquiries following the court’s decision, which has sparked concerns about the ministry’s authority in determining traditional leadership roles.

“We are studying the court ruling and will issue a statement after,” Mr Tagicakirewa said.

“We will be consulting with the Solicitor-General as lawyers for the iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission (2nd Respondent) and iTaukei Lands Appeals Tribunal (1st Respondent) to assess the next steps to be taken.”

Ruling 

The judgment called for a judicial review of Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci’s selection as Tui Nadi, a decision made by ILAT and ILFC in 2017.

This ruling has been challenged by another sub-clan of Narewa Village, raising questions about the legal standing of ILAT and ILFC in chiefly title disputes.

Ratu Vuniyani has expressed strong opposition to the ruling, arguing that it undermines the core function of ILAT and ILFC and could set a precedent weakening their authority.

Tui Nadi, Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci speaking to his lawyer, Vinisoni Filipe. He is surrounded by elders of Narewa Village in Lautoka on March 18, 2025. Photo: Mereleki Nai

“This ruling will open the floodgates, forcing the ITLFC to lose its relevance and its diligent function,” Ratu Vuniyani warned.

More updates are expected once ILAT and ILFC finalise their position in consultation with the Solicitor-General.

Meanwhile, the plaintiff ’s lawyer, lsireli Fa, will be having a press conference today on the judgment in relation to the title of Tui Nadi.

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