THE Bose Levu Vakaturaga (BLV) must have meaningful authority and independence under the proposed constitutional reforms, says the Marama Bale na Roko Tui Dreketi, Ro Temumu Kepa.
Making a submission on behalf of Rewa Province to the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026, she said Fiji must build a democracy that reflected its history, cultures and values while upholding equal citizenship, fundamental rights, the rule of law and democratic accountability.
She welcomed several proposed reforms, including the restoration of the BLV, re-establishment of the Senate, recognition of the Deed of Cession and strengthened protections for customary institutions, land and resources.
“However, the BLV must have the independence, authority and institutional safeguards necessary to fulfil its responsibilities to the iTaukei and contribute to Fiji’s wellbeing and unity,” she said.
She also called for the bose vanua and bose ni yasana to be recognised as enduring institutions through which customary leadership, consultation and collective responsibility were exercised.
“Also the unresolved questions surrounding customary land, minerals, foreshore and qoliqoli rights were of particular importance to Rewa.”
Her submission drew attention to an undertaking conveyed to chiefs by Sir William Des Voeux in 1881 concerning the protection of customary reef rights, as well as subsequent findings of the BLV committee established in 1978.
“These historical undertakings deserve careful consideration and meaningful legal resolution.
“They concern not only our inheritance from previous generations, but also our obligations to generations yet unborn.”
