Two of Fiji’s most senior traditional leaders have been appointed deputy chairpersons of the Great Council of Chiefs.
Turaga na Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and Turaga na Tui Nayau, Sau ni Vanua o Lau, Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba, were officially named to the positions following their nomination by the traditional confederacies of Burebasaga and Tovata, with the Kubuna confederacy also backing the decision.
The announcement was made during the opening of the GCC meeting at Draiba, which commenced with the ceremonial presentation of a kamunaga (whale’s tooth) by the iTaukei Affairs Board, requesting the President and Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, to open the gathering.
In receiving the kamunaga, council members were reminded of the deep responsibility they carry in representing and serving the iTaukei people.
On the opening day of deliberations, the council reviewed key recommendations from a committee that had examined the work of the Department of Consultation, Waterways, and Customary Fishing Grounds (Veitarogivanua, Wai kei na iQoliqoli).
The council also paused to honour its elders, paying tribute to retired members, including former deputy chairman, the late taukei Navo Ratu Meli Saukuru, and the late Qaranivalu, Ratu Inoke Takiveikata of Naitasiri.
The GCC meeting continues today at the council chambers in Draiba as momentum builds for the institution’s renewed role in modern Fiji.
