Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has told the Great Council of Chiefs that their strength is not derived from democracy, but through their authority and influence inherited from ancient systems of leadership which have had a mighty impact on the history of Fiji.
Speaking at the opening of the GCC Meeting at the Lagoon Resort in Pacific Harbour, Rabuka said chiefly titles, knowledge, and ancestry are vital to the indigenous identity and culture, and to the functioning of the vanua.
The Prime Minister said: “I come before you as a Fijian from the ranks of my own vanua- duty-bound to serve my Chiefs and those they lead.”
Rabuka reiterated the call of the late Justice Jai Ram Reddy, and the then Leader of the Opposition who was the only Indo-Fijian to address the Council – the GCC is to be the foundation of unity for our nation, not just for the indigenous Fijian but of all the people of Fiji.
“I could never match the eloquence of Justice Reddy, but I can echo what he said. Like him, I believe you have a destiny that goes beyond tradition.”
“You must be Chiefs for all. I understand very clearly that you have a particular agenda to expedite the progress of the i-Taukei. I ask you to use your combined wisdom, knowledge and authority in an inclusive manner that will generate benefits for everyone.”
The Prime Minister added that Chiefs meet not to celebrate the return of the GCC, but to chart the path forward as bearers of our collective history and architects of a shared future.
“The GCC is a beacon of leadership, guidance and unity. It is a symbol of our enduring traditions, and our collective aspirations for the future,” he said.
