LEAKED emails show forestry officials repeatedly ignored calls from Wainunu villagers to attend meetings and explain the controversial eucalyptus project being run by Xinfa Group of Companies.
Letters and emails reviewed by The Fiji Times reveal at least half a dozen attempts since July last year by landowners, their representatives, and community groups to secure the ministry’s presence.
Most went unanswered, while others drew conditions that further delayed dialogue.
On July 17, 2024, Wainunu district rep Epeli Matawalu wrote to acting divisional forestry officer northern, Uraia Racule, requesting he attend a July 24 meeting at Cogea Village.
Social Empowerment and Education Programme (SEEP) officer Metuisela Gauna relayed the invitation, warning the ministry’s input was critical.
“Your presence would be invaluable in providing clarity on the ministry’s role, sharing updates on monitoring efforts, and addressing any questions or concerns the Vanua may have,” he wrote.
Emails show Mr Racule acknowledged two earlier invitations but failed to attend.
Another appeal followed on November 24. SEEP’s Cema Rokodredre reminded the ministry that villagers were entitled to know what was happening on their land.
“We respectfully request your ministry to send a team to visit the district of Wainunu for an information session, and to clarify details regarding this particular development occurring in their tikina,” she wrote.
The ministry’s response came 13 days later: staff member Sevanaia Ducivaki said officials would only attend if traditional leaders lodged formal written requests backed by the provincial council.
SEEP confirmed that process on December 8, but soon after another official, Josefa Matagasau, added the requests had to be formally endorsed by the Bua Provincial Office “before they reach our office”.
Despite assurances, frustration mounted. On February 7, Ms Rokodredre reported villagers in Daria were upset after the ministry cancelled a meeting at the last minute.
Wainunu Conservation steward leader Laisala Ranamosa said residents had been trying for more than a year to meet forestry officials.
“We were starting to lose hope,” he said.
“It’s sad that we had to go and meet with villagers rather than them coming to us.”
Mr Ranamosa added the community felt its concerns were being ignored.
In reply, Mr Racule promised he would personally attend all future meetings in Wainunu and ensure landowner concerns were addressed before any development proceeded.
