The top 3

The indigenous Fijian population are divided into three confederacies, mainly the result of tribal wars and which exist today as domains or matanitu of powerful paramount chiefs, Kubuna: Ruled by the Vunivalu. The position is vacant after the death of former Governor-General Ratu Sir George Cako bau. It covers roughly the northern parts of Viti Levu, and the Lomaiviti Group.

Burebasaga: Ruled by the Roko Tui Dreketi, Adi Lady Lala, the wife of Prime Minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara. It covers roughly the southern parts of Viti Levu and the southern islands of Fiji.

Tovata: Ruled by the Roko Tui Cakau, President Ratu- Sir Penaia Ganilau. It covers Vanua Levu, Taveuni and the Lau Group. Ratu Sir Kamisese, the paramount chief of Lau, enjoys the same influence as Ratu Sir Penaia.

Viti Levu’s Western Provinces want to break away from Kubuna and Burebasaga and form a fourth confederacy. □