Prime Minister Rabuka honors Girmityas’ legacy at the 146th Commemoration in Labasa

“The legacy of the Girmitiyas is not just historical — it is alive in the heartbeat of modern Fiji. Their determined spirit laid the very foundations of our nation’s economic, cultural, and social development. Let it be known that the Girmitiyas’ story is not just the story of the Indo-Fijian community; it is Fiji’s story — a major part of our shared history. It is a story of perseverance, transformation, and unity. It is a legacy that binds us all.”
This was the message delivered by the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, while officiating at the closing of the 146th Girmit Celebration held at Subrail Park in Labasa today.

Prime Minister Rabuka stated that as we remember the sacrifices of the past, we must also chart a path toward a more united and just Fiji.

“A Fiji where every citizen, regardless of ethnicity or background, feels seen, valued, and included. In that spirit, I want to acknowledge the important progress we are making with the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission.”
“This is our commitment to healing historic wounds through truth-telling, accountability, and national unity. My assurance to the people of Fiji — we will do our best to heal the wounds that have caused us much pain.”

Prime Minister Rabuka further highlighted that while much of our history has involved misunderstandings, there have also been many moments of integration. He shared the example of Mahabir, an indentured labourer who came to Fiji at the age of 16 and spoke of the hospitality of the iTaukei:

“There was no conflict with the Fijians in those days. If you gave them something, they reciprocated. During the indenture days, some Indians would run away from work and go to Fijian villages, where they were often given shelter and food. If one brought yaqona into the village, they would share whatever they had with you. They also learnt to eat roti — they were never fussy people.”

“If one considers this small anecdote, we can say things might have been different if the two races had been allowed to intermingle more freely. Our history may have taken a different course.”

“Now, fast-forward 146 years — I believe we must focus on that unity and forget about the differences. We have lived long enough to leave no room for segregation, disunity, or distrust. We are now one people, belonging to one nation. It is time to build that nation — together.”

Prime Minister Rabuka added that the Girmitiyas were not passive victims. They were proud individuals who resisted oppression, reclaimed their dignity, and fought to define their place in a foreign land.

“They stood firm against injustice and helped shape a new identity for themselves and their descendants. You may have heard or read that the Indians feared no one. They defied British overseers at every opportunity to claim their izzat — their honour. They fought for respect and drew the line on toleration.”

“According to historian Dr Ahmed Ali, ‘The Indians interpreted Girmit as their baptism of fire, which gave them inalienable rights in Fiji — a land where they desired and intended to remain permanently. Girmit was a struggle, and its end did not mark the end of their quest for security and economic advancement.”
The head of government stated as complex as it may be, the Coalition Government has taken the task of national unity with stride.

“As the first step, we declared public holidays to mark two national days, first the Girmit commemoration event that takes place on or around 14th May every year; and Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna Day, where we pay tribute and remember a great statesman of Fiji. Both the events are a way to remember and remind us of the past and how we can move as a nation together.”

Meanwhile, while honouring the Girmityas, Prime Minister Rabuka acknowledged Fiji’s deep and enduring relationship with India, the land from which this journey began.

“Our friendship with India has matured over 55 years of diplomatic ties, shaped by shared values, cultural bonds, and mutual respect. From the successful hosting of the 12th World Hindi Conference in Fiji, to India’s support during the pandemic, support to Fiji’s Sugar Industry, and to the construction of a 100-bed Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital, India has stood with us in times of need and triumph alike. We will remain good friends.”

As this year’s National Girmit commemoration event came to a close at Subrail Park in Labasa today, Prime Minister Rabuka and visiting India’s Minister for State for External Affairs, Shri Pabitra Margherita honored 27 direct descendants of Girmityas who attended the event today.