Accept the fact that PDP will bring back the GCC - Anthony

The People’s Democratic Party has stressed that FijiFirst Leader Voreqe Bainimarama should accept the fact that the Great Council of Chiefs will be reinstated if the FijiFirst does not form the next government.

PDP Leader Felix Anthony said the party does not care what Bainimarama is saying about the GCC.

When asked by Fijivillage on the PDP’s stand on the 2013 constitution clearly stating that Fijian is the common name for the citizens of the country, Anthony said the party does not support this at this stage as the constitution is imposed on the people.

Meanwhile, Bainimarama has made it clear that he will maintain his stand not to bring back the Great Council of Chiefs.

Bainimarama made this statement while speaking in Rakiraki and he said that he does not understand the idea on why various political parties such as SODELPA, FLP, NFP and PDP are saying that they will reinstate the Great Council of Chiefs.

Despite concerns raised by these political parties, Bainimarama said he is firm on his decision.

Bainimarama stated that one of the main reasons for the removal of the GCC is for our chiefs not to be involved in politics.

The Great Council of Chiefs was created by the first colonial governor, Sir Arthur Gordon in 1876, following his consultations with an assembly of chiefs on how the Itaukei should be governed.

Council members advised the Governor with regards to policy on indigenous affairs, and, until 1963, selected indigenous representatives for the colonial Parliament.

Among its nominees to Parliament in the 1950s and early 1960s were Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna, Ratu Kamisese Mara, Ratu George Cakobau, Ratu Edward Cakobau and Ratu Penaia Ganilau, who were to ascend to positions of leadership or significant influence in government.

In 1963, this function of the Council was abolished as indigenous Fijians obtained the right to elect their representatives to Parliament.