The introduction of village by-laws has hit a snag, with legal challenges surrounding a contentious clause related to banishment. Chair of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, reported that while the Solicitor-General’s Office is nearing completion of the draft, concerns remain regarding the clauses that allow for banishment as a penalty for certain violations.
In response to these challenges, a meeting of legal experts is set for March 10, where they will aim to finalize the GCC’s official response. The resolution of these legal issues is seen as a crucial step toward moving the by-laws forward.
Ratu Seruvakula highlighted the significance of these by-laws in tackling urgent social challenges, including issues related to drug abuse, the spread of HIV, sexual offences, and rising crime rates. The community holds onto hope that finalizing these by-laws will lead to stronger social order and better public health outcomes in the villages. This endeavor reflects a collective commitment to improving societal well-being and enhancing the quality of life for residents.