The Great Council of Chiefs is calling for immediate constitutional reform to remove barriers preventing more women from entering Parliament, saying Fiji can no longer delay action on gender equality.

In a statement, GCC Chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula highlighted that the time for discussions, studies, and promises has passed, and the government must now legislate measures that guarantee greater representation for women in national leadership.

He stated that relying on political parties to decide how many women they endorse has failed to deliver meaningful change, with women continuing to be significantly underrepresented despite years of national dialogue.

Ratu Viliame believes constitutional reform should include gender quotas of between 30 and 40%, while local government elections should serve as a pathway for developing future women leaders.

The GCC has also emphasized that Fiji has many qualified and capable women who are ready to serve, but the current constitutional and electoral systems continue to create structural barriers to their participation.

The Council argued that a more inclusive Constitution would strengthen democracy by ensuring women have equal opportunities to represent their communities.

He added that women have long been leaders within the “Vanua”, playing a vital role in preserving culture, supporting communities, and organising traditional responsibilities.

Ratu Viliame said their leadership has never been in question, but national institutions have yet to provide equal opportunities for that leadership to be reflected in Parliament.

The GCC is now urging the Prime Minister and Government to support its submission for a quota system in the new Constitution, saying meaningful constitutional reform must happen now rather than becoming another consultation exercise without implementation.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA