HIS Excellency the President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau has assured Fijians of Vanuatu descent that they are all Fijians and are entitled to call Fiji their home.
During his visit to the descendents living in Caqiri settlement in Valelevu, the head of state made it clear that they had the same right as all other communities including the i-Taukei to call Fiji their home and make a living here.
Vanuatu descendent community spokesman, Mr Ruben Takona said there were many petitions written by the community in the past but it fell on deaf ears, which was why many of them had become “shy” in seeking Government assistance.
“Not only is this the first time the head of state is visiting the descendant community but it was a huge moment of relief when we were assured that we are all Fijians,” he said.
Ratu Epeli’s visit is a follow-up to the request from the chiefs in Vanuatu to look after the affairs of their descendents who are settled here in Fiji, which was made during the President’s official state visit there two weeks ago
Some of the issues raised during the talanoa included land, access to proper amenities provided by municipal councils and assistance to their children in the form of scholarships.
Mr Tokana said they were happy to receive a positive response from the President on almost all the concerns they raised.
Fiji’s non-resident High Commissioner to Vanuatu Mr Romanu Tikotikoca and Vanuatu’s Acting High Commissioner to Fiji, Richard Bolul, accompanied Ratu Epeli during the visit to the community.
Representatives from Muanikoso, New Town and Caubati where descendents also live were also present for the face to face meeting with the President.
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