The Chairman of the Constitution Commission said it is false to conclude that the commission’s new consultant, Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi is in favour of a Christian state just because he was part of the delegation from Bau that made the submission.
Professor Yash Ghai said the views were those of the villagers, not necessarily Ratu Joni’s.
He said if Ratu Joni took that view, he is an advisor, not a decision maker.
The commission said it would benefit from a reasoned defence of a Christian state.
Professor Ghai goes on to say that there is no lawyer among Fijian members of the commission and Ratu Joni has knowledge and experience of law in many capacities, particularly as a lawyer, a judge and as Vice President.
He said Ratu Joni’s knowledge and sensitivity to iTaukei is well known, as is his commitment to a multi-cultural Fiji.
The Yavusa Kubuna of Bau had submitted for Fiji to be a Christian State however they said that this should not be legislated or enforced by the government.
They said that there should be freedom for others to practice and worship their own beliefs and values.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
