Serua villagers seek constitutional protection for 'iTaukei' identity

The term iTaukei should be reserved exclusively for indigenous Fijians, according to a submission presented during consultations on the review of the 2013 Constitution in Serua today.

Presenting the submission on behalf of Korovisilou Village, Roko Tui Serua Jona Dalaga said the term iTaukei should refer only to Indigenous Fijians, while other ethnic groups should continue to be identified by their respective ethnic identities.

Mr Dalaga said the name iTaukei represents the history, culture, traditions and heritage of the Indigenous people of Fiji and should be recognised as such in the Constitution.

He said villagers believed the identity of indigenous Fijians must be clearly protected and distinguished within the country's highest law.

"The name is part of who we are as indigenous people. It reflects our connection to our ancestors, our land and our culture," he said.

Mr Dalaga said preserving the term would help ensure future generations continue to understand and value their identity and cultural roots.

The issue was raised during the ongoing constitutional review process, which has seen communities around the country share their views on a range of national issues.

Supporting the submission, Navutulevu villager Elia Gaunavinaka said the Constitution should continue to recognise the unique identity of the iTaukei people.

Mr Gaunavinaka said Fiji's diverse communities had all contributed to the country's development, but each group should retain its own identity and cultural recognition.

He said protecting the use of the word iTaukei for Indigenous Fijians would help preserve an important part of Fiji's history and heritage.

The constitutional review consultations continue around the country, with Fijians providing submissions on issues including identity, governance, land rights and representation.