Village elders call for GCC to appoint President

Community elders in Nasau on Moce Island in Lau have called for the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) to be given the power to appoint the President, during nationwide constitutional consultations.

The call was made during the first round of public consultations led by Constitution Review Commission chair Sevuloni Valenitabua in the Lau Group, as the commission travels across the country to gather views on potential constitutional changes.

Elder Lemeki Biu, speaking on behalf of the village, said traditional leadership should play a stronger role in national decision-making.

“We believe the chiefs should choose the President because they understand our traditions and values,” Mr Biu said.

“The Bose Levu Vakaturaga has always guided the people, and it should be given back this responsibility.”

He said removing chiefs from this role had weakened the link between tradition and modern governance.

“Our voices as villagers and as people of tradition must be respected. Bringing back the Great Council of Chiefs will help unite the country,” he said.

Under the 2013 Constitution, the President is appointed by Parliament, with Members of Parliament voting to select the Head of State.

The elders say giving the Great Council of Chiefs authority to appoint the President would better reflect Fiji’s traditions and values.

The Constitution Review Commission is expected to continue consultations in other parts of the country before making recommendations on possible changes.