The Great Council of Chiefs was officially opened this morning by His Excellency President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.

While addressing the members of the Great Council of Chiefs, Ratu Wiliame says that, as chiefs, the council should provide the best service to our people and help address the issues they face daily.

Ratu Wiliame says being a chief is not only a title; it has roles and responsibilities for our people.

Meanwhile, the Methodist Church of Fiji President, Reverend Ili Vunisuwai has called on the members of the Great Council of Chiefs to ensure that the new GCC will do the things that are intended to benefit the people.

He says the members should not forget why they are part of the council as they are there to represent their people.

Reverend Vunisuwai adds that there is a lot of poverty and hatred among us.

The President of the Methodist Church of Fiji President says with 75 percent of Itaukei in poverty, the church stands ready to support the government in eradicating it.

He adds that it is no use getting the Great Council of Chiefs running if it cannot solve the rising poverty issue among Itaukei.