Bose Levu Vakaturaga (BLV) chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula says the proposed constitutional provision for State funding of the council must be understood as support for its constitutional functions, not a means for the Government to exert influence over its independence.
His comments come amid concerns raised by the Social Democratic and Liberal Party over Section 152(4) of the draft Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026, which provides for the State to fund or facilitate adequate funding for the council upon request, subject to available resources.
SODELPA has argued that making State funding subject to available resources could give the Government financial leverage over the council.
However, Ratu Viliame said the provision recognised the State’s responsibility to support the effective performance of the BLV’s constitutional functions.
He stressed that any State assistance must not create opportunities for political or administrative interference through the withholding, reduction or manipulation of funding.
Ratu Viliame also clarified that the BLV had never received direct Government funding, with its activities sustained through funding arrangements administered by the iTaukei Trust Fund Board.
“The BLV wishes to clarify that it has never received Government funding and remains committed to preserving its financial independence,” he said.
While supporting appropriate financial accountability and transparent public expenditure, Ratu Viliame said these principles must not be used to undermine the council’s autonomy.
“Accountability must not become a means of exerting improper influence over the Council’s deliberations, membership, leadership or administration.”
Ratu Viliame added that adequate and reasonably predictable funding was essential for the BLV to carry out its constitutional responsibilities independently and effectively.
