MELBOURNE, Australia (Radio Australia, Feb. 14, 2008) – Fiji's interim cabinet says it will go ahead with proposed changes to the rules governing the Great Council of Chiefs.

But the exact nature of the changes recommended by the Special Task Force, are yet to be made public.

The Special Task Force says it consulted widely throughout Fiji, holding discussions with the 14 Provincial Councils.

Interim prime Minister Frank Bainimarama says many chiefs were also consulted about the recommendations, which allegedly include banning chiefs in the GCC from being affiliated with any political party and measures to be put in place to ensure the GCC is not influenced by the government of the day.

He says it was clear during the Special Task Force briefings to the sub-committee that there is overwhelming support from chiefs for an overhaul of the rules.

He says the decision of the Cabinet on the new laws will now be taken to the Provincial Councils for further discussion before being formalised.

Radio Australia: www.abc.net.au/ra
Copyright © 2006 Radio Australia. All Rights Reserved