Lomaiviti Urged to Install its Chiefs

“Please ensure that all the positions of the traditional leaders in your villages are filled. Less than half of the positions in your province are currently occupied,” Mr Vasu said.

Friday 21 June 2024 | 12:10

Minister for Itaukei Affairs Iferemi Vasu (eighth from left), and Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga (ninth from left), with Lomaiviti Provicial Council chairman Ratu Etuweni Caucau and members during the Lomaiviti Provincial Council meeting in Suva on June 20, 2024. Photo: Ronald Kumar

Minister for Itaukei Affairs Iferemi Vasu (eighth from left), and Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga (ninth from left), with Lomaiviti Provicial Council chairman Ratu Etuweni Caucau and members during the Lomaiviti Provincial Council meeting in Suva on June 20, 2024. Photo: Ronald Kumar

The Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Culture, Heritage, and Arts, Ifereimi Vasu, has encouraged the province of Lomaiviti to fill all its traditional leaders’ positions.

He made the request during the Lomaiviti Provincial Council meeting in Suva yesterday.

Mr Vasu emphasised that when these positions were filled, everything would flow smoothly.

“Please ensure that all the positions of the traditional leaders in your villages are filled. Less than half of the positions in your province are currently occupied,” Mr Vasu said.

“When these positions are filled, everything will be clearer, especially regarding roles, responsibilities, and village development. Please collaborate with the Native Land Commission (NLC) to ensure all positions are filled.”

Education

Mr Vasu stressed that education should be a priority for the province.

“You may have noticed that education received the largest budget allocation in the past financial year as we aim to prioritise education,” he said.

“We must work together to prioritise the education of our children because they are the future leaders. As you all know, every village has a hall. Why not use these halls for students to study, with teachers assisting them?

“Spend time with your children, sit with them, and eat with them. We must always prioritise their needs.”

Development

The ministry is compiling a report on how it can better serve Fijians.

Mr Vasu encouraged the province to share its ideas when the ministry’s team visits, as this is a way to enhance the services they provide.

Drugs

He reiterated the message conveyed during the Nadroga/Nasova Provincial Council on Wednesday about the importance of combating drug use in their province.

He urged the people of Lomaiviti to unite in the fight against the rising issues of drugs and HIV/AIDS in Fiji.

Mr Vasu emphasised the significance of collaboration among the Vanua, Church, and Government.

Provincial Council chairperson Ratu Etueni Caucau acknowledged that Mr Vasu had raised important points which they would ensure to follow up on.

He expressed gratitude to the minister for suggesting the use of village halls for children’s study sessions.

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