Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has called on Fijians to embody the spirit of Diwali by spreading light, compassion, and unity in their communities.
In his 2025 Diwali message, Mr Rabuka extended warm greetings to “our Hindu brothers and sisters, and indeed to every Fijian who embraces this sacred occasion of light, love, and togetherness.”
“Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya – a journey of righteousness, endurance and the triumph of light over darkness,” he said.
“The people of Ayodhya lit rows of lamps to welcome him home — a symbol of truth overcoming deception, of hope triumphing over despair, of unity over division.”
“As we celebrated Fiji Day just days ago, we reaffirmed our shared purpose — to build a united, peaceful, and prosperous nation,” he said. “Diwali now calls us to continue that journey by nurturing the light within us — the light of truth, compassion, and justice.”
He acknowledged the challenges facing the nation, including the rise in drug use, the spread of HIV, and lingering social divisions.
“But even a flicker of light can break through darkness,” the Prime Minister said. “Each of us holds the power to illuminate a path forward.”
Mr Rabuka said the values of the government’s Ocean of Peace vision — “peace, unity, forgiveness, and inclusive progress” — were reflected in the meaning of Diwali.
“This is not just a festival of lights, but a call to action: to bring healing where there is pain, dialogue where there is stubbornness, and unity where there is division,” he said.
The Prime Minister urged Fijians to look within and confront “the darkness of selfishness, resentment and indifference,” while embracing understanding, humility, and kindness.
He also reminded citizens of their role in Fiji’s ongoing reconciliation and constitutional review processes.
“To those who have experienced injustices because of our past political upheavals and who still carry the pain of those divisions – your stories matter.”
“The Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission now exists to hear you.”
“And as we embark on the work of the Constitutional Review Commission, I urge all citizens to take part,” he added. “Let this process be guided by light — not by fear or blame, but by courage and shared conviction.”
Mr Rabuka ended his message with a call for unity and hope.
“Let us ensure that good prevails over evil. Let us be the light that binds our islands with love, unity and justice,” he said.
“And let us walk boldly towards a future where all Fijians thrive – together, in the full light of dignity, equality and faith that Fiji’s brightest days are still ahead.”
“Happy Diwali to you all,” he concluded. “May the festival bring light into your lives and may God bless our beloved Fiji.”
