Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has issued a public apology to the Vanua o Noco after admitting he failed to acknowledge the traditional leaders and Luvedra na Ratu during his Girmit Day address.
In a statement, Mr Rabuka said he “regretfully did not acknowledge Na Turaga na Roko Tui Noco kei na Luvedra na Ratu ni Vanua o Noco”, whose support and contributions to Fiji deserved recognition and respect.
The apology carries significance because of the historic relationship between the people of Noco, Rewa and descendants of Girmitiyas.
In 2017, the paramount chiefs of Noco and Rewa formally adopted the descendants of Indo-Fijian indentured labourers, granting them the traditional title Luvedra na Ratu, meaning “Children of the Chief”.
The adoption recognised the enduring historical bond formed after indigenous villagers rescued Indian labourers during the 1884 Syria shipwreck tragedy.
Mr Rabuka said he held deep personal respect for the chiefly household of Noco and reflected on his military connection with the late Tui Noco.
“A former chief, the late Tui Noco served as a Warrant Officer and Drum Major in the Army when I first joined the military,” he said.
“Two of his nephews served in the Infantry Company I commanded. They became the late Tui Noco’s successors.”
The Prime Minister described them as humble and exemplary servicemen who led with humility despite their chiefly status.
“They were chiefs who understood that ‘those that matter do not mind and those that mind do not matter’,” he said.
Mr Rabuka said Girmit Day was a time to reflect on unity, reconciliation and shared nationhood, adding that acknowledging one another with humility and grace was essential in strengthening national unity.
“Fiji is strongest when we honour all those who have contributed to our collective journey,” he said.
The statement comes as Fiji continues commemorations marking the legacy and sacrifices of Girmitiyas and the historical ties that helped shape modern Fiji.
