Around 400 Fijians of Melanesian descent met in Nabuniikadamu Village in Bua for the first ever Vualiku Melanesian Council (VMC)meeting today.
VMC President Jimi Suliasi stated that the two-day event was the first of its kind for the North and was definitely an eye opener for them.
“After the 160th year celebrations last year to commemorate the recorded arrival of the first Melanesians into Fiji, we felt that it was about time that we stood up for ourselves, embracing what our forefathers had gone through and plan for the future and we are truly grateful that the coalition government is with us every step of the way," Suliasi stated.
Assistant Minister to the Office of the Prime Minister, Honourable Sakiusa Tubuna stated that while it was a good time to listen to the concerns and issues raised by the members of the VMC, it was also timely that they were reminded of their roles as stewards in their communities.
“Your Coalition Government, under the leadership of the Honourable Prime Minister will continue to serve you in the context of where you are. We fully understand the different needs that arise in your communities and we appreciate that you hold on proudly to your Melanesian ancestry. Your Government will continue to work hand in hand with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that you are not treated differently from any other Fijian and that your needs will also be addressed. You, however, also need to remember that you play very important roles in your different communities, you need to be good leaders that ensure that proper and transparent governance practices are in place so that you do not become barriers of development in your own communities”
Ms Mereselita Folau from Loa in Buca Bay commended the efforts of the Coalition Government in trying to address issues faced by Fijians of Melanesian descent stating that that there were serious issues of discrimination that they had faced in the past due to their “others” status.
Hon. Tubuna reminded those present that the Government has plans in place to ensure that there is true inclusivity in place for them.
The meeting co-organised by the VMC and the Office of the Prime Minister hosted members from 26 different settlements across Cakaudrove, Bua and Macuata.