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The inaugural meeting of the National Council for Building a Better Fiji (NCBBF) was held on Wednesday, 16th January 2008 and was chaired by both Co-Chairs, His Grace Archbishop Petero Mataca and the Prime Minister, Commodore Ratu Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama. In delivering their introductory remarks, members of the NCBBF acknowledged the importance of this national initiative and pledged their full support to move the Charter process forward. The members strongly agreed to, and emphasised the need for an inclusive consultative process which involves open and free dialogue with all stakeholders. The NCBBF discussed four papers which include: the scope and responsibilities of the NCBBF; their working methods; the establishment of the three National Task Teams (NTTs); and the time frame for their work. Members noted the broad scope and complexity of the NCBBF's agenda and the short timeline envisaged for its completion which is driven by the government's desire to complete the People's Charter prior to the commitment made for the election to be held in March 2009. Some NCBBF members stated that there should be no linkage between the NCBBF's work program and the election date. All Members agreed that sufficient time should be given for the NCBBF to complete its work thoroughly. The NCBBF members noted their role in overseeing the preparation of the draft State of the Nation and Economy (SNE) Report as a basis for the preparation of the draft People's Charter. Drafts of both of these will be disseminated widely in forms that can be readily accessed and circulated to all citizens, particularly in the rural areas and the outer islands. In considering its working methods the NCBBF noted that it evolves around three basic organizing principles which include inclusivity, effective participation and independence from government. Members also agreed to a Code of Conduct encompassing their role in providing consistent direction and leadership, working to a common purpose and the commitment to alignment with the objective of national integration and unity. To support its work, the NCBBF agreed to the establishment of 3 National Task Teams, covering 3 crucial areas i.e Good Governance, Growing the Economy and Social-Cultural Identity and Nation Building. In addition, at the level of the working groups a broad cross section of Fiji's society will be mobilized to actively contribute to the analytical and diagnostic work. The NCBBF also endorsed the appointment of Mr. John Samy as Head of the Technical and Support Secretariat. Mr. Samy has extensive experience at the national, regional and international levels on economic, financial and development issues. The NCBBF noted with regret the lack of support from Fiji's international development partners. The NCBBF noted that Fiji would have to go forward on its own. The NCBBF however appealed to Fiji's International Development partners to extend financial and technical support for this very important national initiative. It also urged the interim government to proactively continue its efforts to mobilize such support. The NCBBF welcomed and supported the suggestion by the Prime Minister that the role of Fiji's Military in the nation's life be reviewed and agreed that a working group be established specifically to address the issue. The NCBBF considered a proposal to include the word 'peace' in the proposed Charter's title. It was unanimously agreed that the title be "The People's Charter for Change, Peace and Progress". The NCBBF strongly endorsed the proposal for an International Advisory Group (IAG) to independently oversight the process for the formulation of the draft People's Charter for Change, Peace and Progress. The NCBBF endorsed the proposal that in the absence of such support from the international community, that a local panel of eminent persons be established to independently oversight the process. All members of the NCBBF pledged their full support and commitment to the formulation of the proposed draft Peoples Charter. The NCBBF reiterated its resolve to fully involve, and consult with, the people of Fiji in its work. The NTTs will commence work within the week, starting 23rd January 2008. The next meeting of the NCBBF will be held on the 28th May 2008. Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama Prime Minister, Co-Chair, NCBBF His Grace Petero Mataca Archbishop, Co-Chair, NCBBF |
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