PM calls on Fijians to reject intolerance

Fiji's Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, has called on all Fijians to reject racial and religious intolerance, urging them to strengthen respect among the country's diverse communities. Speaking in a national address marking the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, Rabuka stated that Fiji's diversity should be a source of strength and unity, not division.

“

We must teach our young people to respect people whose beliefs or backgrounds may be different from their own. We must have the courage to speak against words and actions that seek to divide us.

Rabuka implored parents, teachers, and community leaders to educate young people on respecting individuals with different beliefs, cultures, and backgrounds. "We must teach our young people to respect people whose beliefs or backgrounds may be different from their own. We must have the courage to speak against words and actions that seek to divide us," he said. He added that while places of worship may differ, the shared values of love, dignity, service, and peace can unite all Fijians. On this special occasion, he encouraged everyone to consider how they can contribute to strengthening community bonds.

The Prime Minister stressed that building a peaceful and inclusive Fiji is a collective responsibility involving the government, religious and community leaders, parents, teachers, and every citizen. He noted that the teachings of Prophet Muhammad serve as a vital reminder of compassion, service, and peaceful coexistence. Rabuka urged Fijians to reinforce the ties that bind the nation together, ensuring that diversity becomes a unifying force rather than a cause for discord.

“

Our different places of worship may have different names and traditions, but the values of love, dignity, service and peace are values that can and will unite us.

Rabuka emphasized that everyone should reflect on the core values of compassion, understanding, and service inherent in Prophet Muhammad's teachings. He envisioned a strong Fiji where people of all faiths and backgrounds can coexist with dignity and mutual respect, citing examples of interfaith harmony. He also acknowledged the Muslim community's long-standing and significant contributions to Fiji's national development across various sectors, including education, agriculture, commerce, and community service. Many Muslim organizations and individuals continue to serve all Fijians, making lasting contributions to the country's well-being and progress.

“

A strong Fiji is one in which a Christian can wish a Muslim neighbour well on this occasion; where a Muslim family can share in the joy of Diwali with their Hindu neighbours; where we respect the traditions and values of our indigenous communities; and where people of every faith and background can live together in dignity and mutual respect.