The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) is pushing for the removal of the two-year residency requirement that currently hinders some iTaukei individuals from running in the general election. Chair of the GCC, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, highlighted his concerns regarding the law, which he believes unfairly excludes those listed in the Vola ni Kawa Bula who may have spent time abroad for work or educational purposes.
Ratu Viliame contends it is unreasonable to disqualify candidates solely based on their prior residence outside Fiji. Currently, the electoral regulations mandate that candidates must have lived in Fiji for at least two years before being eligible for public office. This regulation, enacted by the previous administration, poses a considerable barrier for eligible VKB members who aspire to participate in the nation’s leadership.
With the general election approaching and debates surrounding constitutional changes growing more fervent, the GCC has announced plans to formally propose an initiative to abolish the residency requirement. This effort is founded on the principles of fairness and inclusivity, as the GCC emphasizes the necessity for indigenous Fijians to fully engage in the governance of their country.
This initiative underscores a significant shift towards fostering a more inclusive political arena, allowing all Fijian citizens the chance to contribute to shaping their nation’s future. The move could pave the way for enhanced representation and stronger community involvement as Fiji’s democracy continues to evolve.