National Federation Party leader Professor Biman Prasad says the legacy of the Girmitiyas is one of resilience, dignity and nation-building, as Fiji marks Girmit Day today.
In a statement commemorating the national public holiday, Prof Prasad said May 15 marked an important moment to honour the courage and sacrifice of the first Girmitiyas who arrived in Fiji on May 14, 1879.
“We honour the courage, sacrifice and resilience of the men and women who came to Fiji under the Girmit system,” he said.
“They arrived through hardship and uncertainty, separated from their homeland, yet through determination, faith and perseverance, they endured and built new lives for future generations.”
Prof Prasad said the story of Girmit was not only one of suffering, but also one of contribution, hope and development.
“Through the sugar industry, which remained the backbone of Fiji’s economy for generations, the Girmitiyas and their descendants played an important role in the growth and development of our country,” he said.
“They helped build farms, businesses, schools and communities. They believed deeply in education, hard work, family and creating opportunities for future generations.”
He said the contribution of Girmit descendants formed part of Fiji’s broader national story alongside all communities that helped shape the country.
Prof Prasad acknowledged that Fiji’s history had experienced moments of division and pain but stressed that the true legacy of the Girmitiyas was not bitterness.
“It is resilience. It is dignity. It is mutual respect and the courage to keep building a better Fiji together,” he said.
He also highlighted the National Federation Party’s historical role in recognising Fiji’s multicultural identity, noting that former NFP leader Siddiq Koya had worked with then Prime Minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara in 1974 to have Diwali and Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday recognised as public holidays.
Prof Prasad said the Coalition Government further recognised the significance of Girmit history in 2023 by introducing Girmit Day as a public holiday for all Fijians.
“As we reflect on Girmit Day, let us continue to carry forward the values that helped build this nation: hard work, dignity, compassion, education, unity and respect for one another,” he said.
“On behalf of the National Federation Party, I wish all Fijians a meaningful and reflective Girmit Day.”
