NO mining activity will happen in Namosi until the Mining Act is reviewed and changed, says the Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua.
In an interview at the Namosi Provincial Council in Navua yesterday, Ratu Suliano reiterated the province would not accept or entertain any mining licence from companies interested in mining in the province.
“I’ve made my stand very clear – we will not have any mining activity in the province,” he said.
“First and foremost, I want my people to benefit from any such deal, and the current Mining Act does not favour resource owners.
“This needs to change. Resource owners in this case are my people and I need to make sure that whatever happens, they benefit as well.”
As a chief, Ratu Suliano said the welfare of his people remained paramount.
“Our decision is a result of what the people want and they don’t want any mining to happen in Namosi.
“As a chief, my duty is to support them and ensure I stand with my people.
“Any development in Namosi will go through, not only the chiefs, but consult the people as well and together we make a decision.”
Today, the people of Namosi will celebrate annual Namosi Day at Veivatuloa Village.
