There are about 260 traditional titles vacant in the province of Cakaudrove.

Out of this, five chiefly titles are vacant, 48 Turaga Ni Yavusa (sub-clan leaders) and 207 Turaga Ni Mataqali (leader of the clan).

This was revealed during the Bose Ni Yasana or Provincial Council Meeting in Savusavu by Native Lands Commission Officer, Waisake Ratubalavu.

However, he stated, some of these titles may have been filled but they have not been registered with the Ministry of ITaukei Affairs.

Cakaudrove Provincial Council Chairman, Ratu Jekesoni Yavala says this is an issue that they are looking at with the Ministry.

He told FBC News, it’s important that these vacant titles be filled so the people can know their status and the roles they play in villages, districts and the province as a whole.

ITaukei Affairs Board Deputy Chief Executive Josefa Toganivalu says they look to traditional leaders because of the authority they have when it comes to the Vanua.

“It is important, in terms of development and also in terms of guidance. We need leaders to guide those out there. We also have the resources which need to be looked after. With no traditional leaders, we feel that resources will not be used sustainably.”

There are 16 districts and 134 villages in the Cakaudrove province.