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There’s nothing sinister about the Charter: Ratu Josateki FIJI will have a quick return to democracy if chiefs and leaders put aside their differences and participate in the proposed People’s Charter process, says the Kadavu Provincial Council chairman, Ratu Josateki Nawalowalo. Ratu Josateki, also a member of the National Council for Building a Better Fiji, says Fiji needs genuine reconciliation and more importantly, institutional reconciliation between the BoseLevu Vakaturaga (Great Council of Chiefs), Government and the military. He says the chiefs, political leaders and religious leaders must act as brokers to yield peace, progress and prosperity for Fiji, and the Charter will help achieve that. “We need genuine reconciliation among people and more importantly, institutional reconciliation, where institutions like the BoseLevu Vakaturaga (Great Council of Chiefs), Military and the Government can see eye to eye and work together for the betterment of the people.” Ratu Josateki said the doors of the NCBBF remain open for those who have so far rejected the offer. “They can walk in anytime they like and join in. There is nothing sinister about the proposal,” the Kadavu chief said. “It is my plea to all the leaders, and, especially to the chiefs and heads of the 14 Provinces and also the leaders of the Methodist Church of Fiji, to participate in the Charter process; air your grievances and views on issues which are affecting our people and get your voices heard. The NCBBF provides you a forum for dialogue; take advantage of it and come on board. We have some very pressing issues which need to be addressed; so why don’t we all use this mode, put everything on the table and take charge of the way we want to reshape Fiji’s history.” He said if leaders want a quick return to democracy, they must come forward and take part. Ratu Josateki said many people are hurt; they feel their rights and aspirations have been curtailed, given this, the proposed People’s Charter offers everyone an opportunity to resolve some of these matters. “We need a long term solution and we can achieve this through the Charter mechanism. Also, this process will help us address the very fundamental issues affecting us,” he said In the same breath, he also called on the Interim Government to educate the public at large on the proposed Charter. “Many on the ground, including our leaders, do not have a clear understanding on this national effort; they need to be educated and informed,” he said. 21/02 |
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