Headman: Do away with equal distribution of lease money
We have our own land and our titles, a lot of things were taken away from us, we simply request that they be returned.
Lomolomo Village headman Jolame Nailaruwai claimed that there was no consultation before the implementation of the equal lease distribution policy. This was part of his submission at a public consultation on the review of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC).
The consultation was held at the Sugar Cane Growers Hall on Wednesday.
“I am requesting for the equal lease distribution (policy) to be removed because we were taken advantage of and we cannot partake in functions. When it is time to collect contributions of those under the equal lease distribution, some don’t give anything,” Mr Nailaruwai said.
“When the previous government implemented it (equal lease distribution policy) there was no consultation, it was disrespectful. I apologize for what I have said but that is what happened and it was hurtful to us. We have our own land and our titles, a lot of things were taken away from us, we simply request that they be returned.”
He also questioned the foundation of the decree which removed the GCC.
“My second question is what did the GCC do for it to be removed and thirdly where were the army and police when the GCC was removed,” he said.
He also requested that lease provisions in Fiji’s Mining Act be changed.
Jone Baledrokadroka, the leader of the GCC Review Team, acknowledged Mr Nailaruwai’s concerns which were noted by the committee and stated that they would be addressed by the relevant official following the consultation.