Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei has highlighted deep tensions and a strong belief in the link between indigenous identity, historical ownership, and is calling for a return to a Christian State, and modern democratic principles in Fiji.
While making their submission to the Constitution Review Commission, Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei President, Adi Finau Tamari Tabakaucoro says indigenous Fijians should be recognised as the primary owners and decision-makers of the nation.
She traces Fiji’s nationhood to the Deed of Cession in 1874, stating that it was not just a colonial agreement but the foundation of Fiji as a modern state established by indigenous Fijians.
Adi Finau stresses that any attempt to redefine national identity without acknowledging this history, distorts the country’s origins.
A major concern raised in her submission was identity.
She has rejected the 2013 Constitutional use of the term “iTaukei” to define indigenous people, arguing it is being misapplied.
Adi Fianu says there is a growing misunderstanding about the meaning of the term "iTaukei".
She explains that the term "iTaukei" is not traditionally used to refer to “indigenous people” in the way it is currently applied.
She says the word carries a deeper cultural meaning, rooted in respect, honour, and a sense of guardianship or ownership, rather than describing a racial or ethnic group.
She stressed that defining indigenous Fijians as "iTaukei" in the Constitution does not simply rename them but instead misrepresents the original meaning of the word.
Adi Fainau also rejected the idea that the term can be broadly applied to anyone in Fiji.
She says being in the country does not automatically make someone iTaukei, warning that such usage weakens its cultural significance.
She further stated that, in her view, the identity of Fijians as the indigenous people of the country should remain clearly recognised.
According to Adi Finau, the issue goes beyond language and touches on the recognition of identity and history.
She believes that redefining the term in law risks taking away the clear acknowledgment of the original people of Fiji.
She says indigenous people are “Fijians,” and labeling all citizens as Fijians weakens indigenous identity.
She also warns that Fiji risks following countries such as New Zealand, Australia and the United States, where indigenous populations were sidelined as settlers adopted national identities.
On religion, Adi Finau told the Commission that Christianity played a deliberate role in Fiji’s founding.
Insert: Deed of Cession in 1874 24th April 26
While calling for Fiji to return to be recognised as a Christian State, Adi Finau says many chiefs had already embraced Christianity before 1874 and viewed it as a unifying force to bring peace and stability.
She adds that the Deed of Cession reflected this, linking Christianity to governance, education and national development.
Adi Finau emphasised that understanding this historical context is important in current constitutional discussions.
Land ownership was another key issue raised.
She also noted that indigenous Fijians own about 90 percent of the land, which underpins their claim to primacy in national affairs.
She also questions aspects of Fiji’s democratic system, saying majority-rule democracy has at times diluted indigenous influence.
Her submission linked this to Fiji’s political upheavals, including the coups of 1987, 2000 and 2006, which she says reflected ongoing indigenous disaffection.
Adi Finau warns that without recognition of indigenous primacy, instability could continue.
The Commission continues to receive submission and will ne going to the public next month.
