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The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) concluded its two-day assembly at Suva's Grand Pacific Hotel with a unified call for an etensive review of Fiji's 2013 Constitution.

GCC chairperson Ratu Viliame Serubakula outlines significant issues, stressing the need for changes to enhance iTaukei rights, strengthen village goverance, and tackle critical national issues, including violence against women.

A core demand from the chiefs is the reinstatement of their author­ity to appoint Fiji's President-a prerogative removed under the 2013 Constitution.

Ratu Viliame expressed frustration with the current process, which, he argued restricts the traditional role of chiefs in selecting the nation's Head of State.

"We have identified areas requiring change," he said.

"It may be a difficult journey, but the chiefs are determined to press on."

The GCC also seeks a review of the Constitution's "common iden­tity" clause, which identifies all citizens as "Fijians" regardless of ethnic background.

Many iTaukei feel this uniform identity conceals the distinct socio-economic challenges they face.

"We seek a level playing field," Ratu Viliame said.

"Our concerns are not discrimi­natory; but the current system doesn't fully represent the real­ity for the iTaukei. Recent data from the Fiji Bureau of Statistics failed to provide a clear picture of where the iTaukei stand."

A troubling statistic highlighted by the GCC is the persistent pov­erty rate among the iTaukei, de­spite their control over a substan­tial portion of Fiji's land.

Nearly 75 per cent of iTaukeilive in poverty. Ratu Viliame believes the constitutional structure exac­erbates by limiting opportunities to monetise their resources.

"We must address this imbal­ance. Economic reforms are need­ed to empower indigenous com­munities," he said.

The chiefs also called for a review of the village bylaws, advocating for enhanced local governance to address social issues, including drug abuse, and restore stability within rural communities.

Among other priorities, the chiefs expressed deep concern over Fiji's rising rates of domes­tic violence, an issue that has drawn international attention.

"Fiji ranks alarmingly high in cases of domestic violence and violence against women. This is a serious issue that the chiefs are committed to addressing with Government and stakeholders."

Additionally; the GCC proposed the reintroduction of the iTaukei Affairs Board scholarship to offer greater educational opportunities for iTaukei youth.

While recognising the complexi­ties of constitutional reform, the council remains resolute.

"We understand that changing the Constitution won't be easy;" Ratu Viliame said.

''A dedicated group will be estab­lished to assess the feasibility of advancing this review."

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