Relationships between our ethnic communities are generally good but we need to continue weaving connections to the point where they are interwoven an… - Joni Madraiwiwi

Not five generations distant, Fijians were cannibalizing each other. The missionaries and the colonial administration imposed a veneer of civilization on their native subjects. However, it is not apparent that they imparted to them any profound understanding of the process involved in the maintenance and upholding of the law.

The (racial and cultural) difference is to be celebrated, not fried or criticised, and we are so much richer for it.

Traditional leadership is based on ascription. In former times, there was some degree of flexibility which enabled change. This was based on prowess in war and statecraft. The British fossilised the system and traditional leaders became government functionaries. Their authority was strengthened by the colonial administration.