EDITORIAL: The Great Council Of Chiefs, Our Vision And Mission

Ratu Viliame Seruvakula is the right choice to lead our chiefs in helping Fiji move forward.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, set one of the greatest moments of iTaukei history yesterday, in begging the chiefs of our provinces at the opening of the Great Council of Chief meeting at Deuba.

As a commoner, he knelt before the chiefs of Fiji, seeking blessings and guidance.

"I come before you as a Fijian from the ranks of my own vanua.

I am duty-bound to serve my chiefs.

I come to pay my respects to you, traditional leaders of Fiji.

Your mana is not derived from democracy.

You possess authority and influence, you are vital to the indigenous identity and culture, and to the functioning of the vanua.

"The GCC has risen again to resume its time-honoured role in the affairs of this land.

This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24)."

Mr Rabuka begged for support from the mana of the land held by our chiefs.

He sought their blessings and guidance in the hope he has set to take Fiji to before passing on the leader-ship baton in the future.

The GCC was established by the British Government in 1875, as an advisory body.

It was suspended in 2007 and disestablished by the former Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama, in 2012.

Mr Rabuka's coalition Government revived it last year.

Yesterday, a new chairman was elected.

The new chair is a man of all people.

A man Fiji can trust. A man who saved Fiji from one of its darkest moments in 2000 civilian coup - former Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) 3FIR Commanding Officer, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula.

Like the dream of his former military commander, Ratu Viliame is a born leader, an academic, apolitical, an athlete, and a man who would not be able to be swayed easily through corruption, as he showed in the upheavals of 2000.

Fiji needs leaders such as Ratu Viliame, the Turaga Sau of Nasautoka, Wainibuka, Tailevu.

His appointment marks a significant moment in Fiji's history.

Prime Minister Rabuka's humble plea to the chiefs for their guidance and blessings sets a tone of unity and cooperation as the GCC resumes its vital role in the affairs of the nation.

Ratu Viliame's leadership, integrity, and commitment to serving all Fijians make him the ideal choice to guide the chiefs in leading Fiji towards prosperity.

As a respected leader and former military officer, Ratu Viliame embodies the qualities of a true States-man.

His vision for a united and successful Fiji resonates with the hopes and aspirations of the people.

With the support of the chiefs and Government, Ratu Viliame is poised to steer the GCC towards a path of progress and unity that transcends political divides.

The revival of the GCC under Ratu Viliame's leadership signals a new chapter in Fiji's journey towards a brighter future.

As a beacon of guidance, unity, and leadership, the GCC has the potential to unite all Fijians and pave the way for a more prosperous and peaceful nation.

With Ratu Viliame at the helm, the GCC stands ready to embrace its role as a symbol of hope and inspiration for all.

As the PM said in his speech: "I see you, our Chiefs, playing a special part in this mission. You must be chiefs for all."

Feedback: maikeli.vesikula@fijisun.com.fj