Members of the Fiji Mine Workers Union have finally received a payment of $3.6 million, marking the first compensation distribution in what has been the world’s longest labor strike, lasting 33 years. The affected workers are from the Vatukoula Gold Mine located in Fiji’s Western Division.
The strike began on February 27, 1991, when 368 miners protested against unjust treatment in their employment conditions. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka presided over the compensation payout on the significant occasion, noting that the workers had to fight for their rights, dignity, and livelihoods over the years. He acknowledged that they had waited too long for justice to be served.
During the event, Mr. Rabuka expressed his sincerest apologies to the elder miners present, reflecting on the early days of the strike when he had ministerial authority and could have acted sooner. The initial payment will grant each mine worker $10,000, with a second tranche of $15,000 planned for the 2025-2026 National Budget.
In his remarks, Mr. Rabuka noted the profound impact the strike had on the miners and their families, which led to significant emotional and financial distress. He stressed the importance of the cheque, seeing it not just as financial assistance but as recognition of the hardships faced due to unresolved employment issues.
Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh, who participated in the initial strikes, labeled the day as emotional, stating it marked the closure of a long chapter characterized by hardship and mistreatment. He expressed gratitude for being present at such a pivotal moment for the miners.
Joseva Sadreu, president of the Fiji Mine Workers Union, expressed his gratitude directly to Mr. Rabuka, emphasizing the emotional weight of the day and the long struggle for their rights that the miners have endured. He described the moment as a fulfillment of their prayers and efforts over the past three decades.