PRIME MINISTER RABUKA COMMEMORATES GIRIMIT DAY CELEBRATIONS AT CHURCHILL PARK
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledged the contributions of the indentured labourers and their descendants at the Girimit Day Celebrations held at Churchill Park in Lautoka today.
Whilst delivering his official remarks, the Prime Minister stated that this year’s celebration is special, as its the first public holiday to recognize and honour the Girmitiyas from India who came to Fiji between 1879 and 1916.
He further stated the indentured labourers contributed immeasurably to the life of the nation socially and economically.
“The underlying theme of the new Girmit holiday is about unity and how we can achieve this. Your Government wishes to share thinking about making changes right across the community so that we can come to a consensus about the future.
“I am confident that if we commit to finding this new way forward, Fiji will become a truly united home for us all.
“The Coalition Government, in consultation and cooperation with all the people of Fiji wishes to build a country based on respect and love of neighbor.
“It is time now for the nation to work harder to overcome the things that have kept us apart in the past. In a sense, we have reaped what was sown in the colonial period but now it is up to us to forge and form the foundation for our future,” the Prime Minister added.
The Head of Government praised the organizers of the event for hosting a multicultural and inclusive nature, which featured inter-faith prayers, as well as a girmit song, drama and dance performances by school students.
The commemoration of Girmit Day celebration in Lautoka, began with a student’s march from Shirley Park and also included an oratory competition.