The introduction of village by-laws is currently stalled due to legal challenges concerning a controversial provision regarding banishment. This situation has been acknowledged by the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), with Chair Ratu Viliame Seruvakula indicating that while the Solicitor-General’s Office has nearly completed the draft, concerns were raised about clauses that permit banishment as a consequence for violations.
A meeting of legal experts is scheduled for March 10, where they will work on finalizing the Council’s official response to these issues. Once these legal concerns are addressed, the by-laws are anticipated to progress further.
Ratu Seruvakula emphasized the importance of these by-laws in addressing various pressing social problems, which include drug-related issues, the spread of HIV, sexual offences, and increasing crime rates. As the community awaits a resolution, there remains a sense of hope that the finalization of these by-laws will pave the way for enhanced social order and improved public health within the villages.