RESPECT for traditional leadership and village protocols must be upheld to preserve the rights and authority of the iTaukei chiefly system, says Tui Mali Ratu Apenisa Bogiso.
Ratu Apenisa said some laws introduced in previous years had weakened the authority of traditional leaders and affected the way villages governed themselves.
“Some of those laws weakened the authority of the traditional system,” he said.
He supported a call by the Roko Tui Dreketi, Ro Teimumu Kepa, to review more than 30 laws from the previous government. They argue these laws harm indigenous iTaukei rights and organisations.
For example, the 2007 decree unfairly ended the Great Council of Chiefs, while the 2013 Constitution hurt traditional land and fishing rights.
He said the iTaukei system already had established processes for making decisions and resolving issues within communities.
“In our villages, we already have our own proper way of making decisions.”
He said anyone entering a village should observe customary protocols by respecting the chief and following traditional practices.
“When people come into the village, they should listen, respect the chief and follow the proper protocol.”
He said the authority of the chief remained central to maintaining order, unity and respect within village communities.
“When the chief speaks, people should listen. That is our way.”
He said protecting the role of traditional leaders was important for preserving iTaukei customs, identity and cultural values for future generations while maintaining harmony within village life.
