President backs ‘Kai Viti’ as identity for indigenous Fijians

Fiji's President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, has publicly advocated for indigenous Fijians to adopt the identity "Kai Viti," suggesting it would be a more fitting term than the current "iTaukei." This proposal comes as discussions surrounding the review of the nation's Constitution continue.

Speaking at the 100th anniversary celebration of Meridian Store in Wairiki, Taveuni, President Lalabalavu stated that "Kai Viti" would better represent the indigenous people's identity. He emphasized that "Fijian" should be preserved as the national identity, encompassing all citizens regardless of their ethnic background or origin.

This is the first time the Head of State has publicly shared his views on the sensitive issue of indigenous identity amidst the ongoing constitutional deliberations. "For me, the Fijian identity of us that have acquired citizenship through birthright, through official means, renamed as Fijian, for me that is enough. That is a great identity for us all," the President remarked. "But I strongly suggest that for us, the native Fijians of this country, the name Fijian doesn’t properly identify who we are. I’d rather strongly suggest that we identify ourselves as Kai Viti instead of using the word iTaukei."

President Lalabalavu noted that his suggestion aligns with existing linguistic and cultural references within Fiji. He pointed out that the official language is known as vosa vaka-Viti, traditional houses are called vale vaka-Viti, and Fiji's national sports teams are often described as representing Viti. Therefore, he argued, "Kai Viti" would be a more appropriate designation for the indigenous population.

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For me, the Fijian identity of us that have acquired citizenship through birthright, through official means, renamed as Fijian, for me that is enough. That is a great identity for us all. But I strongly suggest that for us, the native Fijians of this country, the name Fijian doesn’t properly identify who we are. I’d rather strongly suggest that we identify ourselves as Kai Viti instead of using the word iTaukei.