Tovulailai villagers call for stronger enforcement of village by-laws

Relevant authorities in Government are being urged to strengthen existing village by-laws.

Villagers of Tovulailai, Nairai in Lomaiviti Province said clearer and more enforceable rules are needed to address growing local challenges.

The call was made during the Constitution Review Commission (CRC) consultations held in Tovulailai Village yesterday.

Community members raised concerns about governance, discipline and the effectiveness of local regulations.

During the consultation, Matanitikina o Batiki representative Tevita Tavodi said the review process presents an important opportunity for rural communities to have their voices heard on how villages are governed.

“This is the time for us to speak honestly about what is working and what is not in our villages,” Mr Tavodi said. “Our by-laws exist, but in many cases they are not strong enough or not properly enforced.”

Several villagers echoed similar sentiments, saying existing by-laws need to be updated to reflect social and economic realities.

Many said issues such as community discipline, resource management and youth behaviour require clearer rules and more consistent enforcement.

“We need by-laws that are not only written, but respected,” Mr Tavodi said. “Without enforcement, the rules lose their meaning.”

Participants also highlighted the importance of aligning village governance structures with national legal frameworks, to ensure local leadership has both guidance and authority to maintain order.

The consultations form part of a wider national review process aimed at gathering public input on constitutional and governance reforms across Fiji.

Villagers in Tovulailai said they hope their contributions will be reflected in future policy discussions, particularly those affecting rural and maritime communities.