Landowners should have final say on development, CRC told

A Ba chief has called for constitutional provisions granting iTaukei landowners the power to veto development projects affecting their land.

The Constitutional Review Committee heard the submission from Tui Vitogo, Ratu Jone Sovasova, during consultations at Vitogo Village in Lautoka this morning.

Ratu Jone said development on customary land should not proceed without the full consent of landowners, urging stronger constitutional protections for indigenous communities.

He proposed that the Constitution require “meaningful consultation and free, prior and informed consent” before major developments take place on iTaukei land.

"The State shall ensure meaningful consultation and free, prior and informed consent from customary landowners," Ratu Jone said.

He said customary land remained the foundation of indigenous identity, culture, social organisation and economic security.

Ratu Jone noted that about 90 per cent of Fiji's land is held under customary ownership and should be protected accordingly.

His submission also calls for constitutional recognition of collective indigenous rights, stronger protection of customary land ownership, recognition of traditional governance institutions and greater protection of indigenous cultural heritage and customary laws.

He also proposed that customary land remain permanently owned by traditional landowners and be protected from sale or permanent transfer.

Ratu Jone further suggested that no changes to laws governing customary land ownership, administration or protection should be made unless supported by at least a two-thirds majority in Parliament.

He said the proposed changes would help safeguard the rights, identity and aspirations of indigenous people while ensuring development proceeds with the support of the communities most affected.

Ratu Jone told the commission that constitutional reform should be grounded in Fiji’s history, traditions and values, while preserving indigenous institutions and customary land for future generations.