The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has called for an immediate ban on the performance of the “meke-taki-ni yaqona vaka-turaga” ceremony for overseas visitors, along with the prohibition of tabua sales and the use of garlands during traditional events. This request underscores the chiefs’ commitment to preserving the cultural integrity of iTaukei traditions, which are deeply rooted in respect and reverence.
Chairman of the GCC, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, articulated that these measures are intended to safeguard the ceremonial significance of the yaqona, a traditional kava ceremony characterized by specific chants and movements honoring high chiefs. During recent discussions, chiefs across the country expressed concerns that the commercialization of these practices has led to a dilution of their cultural and spiritual meanings.
Seruvakula cautioned that the growing trend of presenting the chiefly yaqona ceremony to almost every visiting delegation has breached long-standing iTaukei customs, undermining the respect these traditions command. The council’s decision to ban the sale of tabua stems from a belief that this cultural symbol should not be commodified, as assigning a monetary value to it diminishes its meaning and jeopardizes the integrity of iTaukei customs.
Additionally, the GCC has proposed halting the practice of garlanding chief guests at official functions, emphasizing that this custom is not in line with traditional iTaukei protocols. The council remains firm in its belief that cultural preservation should take precedence over profit, highlighting their dedication to protecting the iTaukei heritage for future generations.
These calls for change reflect a growing movement within the community to honor traditional customs while ensuring they are respected and valued in their original context. By prioritizing cultural integrity over commercialization, the GCC is taking significant steps to preserve an essential aspect of iTaukei identity.