Commission silent on title dispute

2025-03-26 07:13:00

Abstract: TLFC won't comment on the Tui Nadi vacancy due to its sensitivity. A High Court ruling declared a prior decision invalid, adding legal complexity. TLFC will meet with iTaukei Affairs Ministry to discuss the matter.

iTaukei Land and Fisheries Commission (TLFC) Chairman Apimeleki Tola has stated that he will not comment on the statements related to the currently vacant Tui Nadi position. He emphasized that the commission will not issue any public statements until the issue is resolved. This cautious approach underscores the sensitivity of the matter.

When asked to comment on the matter on Monday, Mr. Tola said, "E ka beci me da kaburaka e dua na ka baleta na veitalanoa oqo (it is disrespectful to make any comment about this discussion)." The commission has referred all inquiries to the Attorney-General's office for handling. This delegation highlights the legal complexities involved.

Mr. Tola plans to meet with officials from the iTaukei Affairs Ministry this week to discuss the recent High Court ruling. The ruling declared the decision to declare Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci as Tui Nadi invalid. In this civil case, the late Ratu Kaliova Dawai challenged the decision, with the commission, the iTaukei Affairs Ministry, and Ratu Vuniyani, along with the Attorney-General's office, listed as defendants. Ratu Asiveni Dawai took over the case after Ratu Kaliova's death.

Justice Mohammed Mackie stated that the decisions made by the iTaukei Land Appeals Tribunal on June 1, 2018, and the iTaukei Land and Fisheries Commission (TLFC) on December 5, 2017, to declare Ratu Vuniyani as the legitimate Tui Nadi were unreasonable and non-compliant. This legal assessment further complicates the selection process for the Tui Nadi position.