Praneeta Prakash 
[Photo: FILE]
The Social Democratic Liberal Party says comments about buying back freehold land and converting it to iTaukei ownership do not reflect its official policy, manifesto, or approved position.
General Secretary Levi Vere stated that Jolame Uludole and Savenaca Komaisavai made those remarks in their personal capacities during Parliament’s Special Committee on the Constitution Amendment Bill hearing.
During the hearing, committee member Sachida Nand questioned whether the priority should instead be making existing iTaukei land more productive, noting that 88 to 89 percent of Fiji’s land is already iTaukei-owned, but only a small portion is used productively.
Uludole acknowledged the economic importance of productive land use but maintained that ownership is the greater concern.
Vere clarified that SODELPA’s official position supports returning unused State or Crown land, originally acquired for public purposes, to its rightful iTaukei landowners.
“The party does not propose the acquisition, buy-back, or conversion of freehold land, as we recognize the legal and social complexities surrounding freehold property rights and the security of all Fijian citizens.”
He added that the party’s formal position on constitutional reform was contained in its submission to the Constitutional Review Commission.
SODELPA remains committed to protecting iTaukei rights and interests while upholding the rule of law, stability, and mutual respect.
Vere says their values and plans for leading Fiji will be reflected in its forthcoming manifesto and action plan.
