Minister for Defence Pio Tikoduadua says Fiji continues to live with the legacy of the 1987 coups nearly four decades later, as the nation reflects on issues of belonging, reconciliation and unity.
Speaking at the Faith Based Leaders Forum on the Social Cohesion and Reconciliation (SCORE) Index Assessment Findings yesterday, Mr Tikoduadua said it was fitting the discussions were held on the same day Fiji marked both the 39th anniversary of the 1987 coup and Girmit Day.
“It is also, perhaps fitting that we meet today, of all days, to speak on this matter,” he said.
“Today marks the 39th anniversary of the 1987 coup. It is also Girmit Day, a day on which we remember the arrival, sacrifice, hardship, and contribution of the Girmitiyas and their descendants to the building of modern Fiji.”
Mr Tikoduadua said both occasions highlighted the broader national question of belonging.
“The history of the Girmitiyas is a history of endurance, displacement, labour, and survival,” he said.
“From that experience emerged generations of Fijians who helped build this country through agriculture, business, education, public service, and community life. Their story is part of Fiji’s story.”
The Defence Minister said the events of 1987 remained one of the defining moments in Fiji’s history, with impacts still felt across communities and institutions.
“Its effects were political, economic, institutional, and deeply personal for many families and communities across this country,” he said.
“It altered relationships between citizens and the State, between communities themselves, and between Fiji and the wider world.”
Mr Tikoduadua said Fiji was still grappling with parts of that legacy nearly 40 years later as the country continues efforts towards reconciliation and social cohesion.
