Karalo Naituki, a long-time resident of the Fiji Muslim League squatter settlement in Nabua, has been living there for over 30 years. Along with nearly a thousand other residents, Naituki now faces the prospect of eviction following a public notice issued by the Fiji Muslim League, which has announced that legal proceedings will begin to remove occupants from their property.
Naituki, who moved to the settlement in the 1980s with hopes of a better life, explained that many families have established their lives there, contributing to a community that he chairs for over 200 residents in Zone 4. He noted that discussions about eviction have been ongoing for years, although no official notices have yet been served to the area’s chairpersons.
Despite previous rumors of impending eviction, such as house numbering and offers of relocation assistance, no concrete actions have been undertaken until now. The residents, many of whom have built homes, found jobs, and enrolled their children in local schools, face significant challenges if forced to relocate.
In their recent notice, the Fiji Muslim League encouraged residents to seek independent legal counsel and start removing their belongings from the land. The trustees stated their intention to develop the property, emphasizing the need for cooperation from current occupants to vacate within a legally designated timeframe.
Legal representatives for the Fiji Muslim League have indicated that more information about the situation will be released shortly.
This situation highlights the difficulties faced by families who have invested decades in building their lives in a community, demonstrating the emotional and practical challenges of displacement. While the legal process continues, it underscores the importance of open dialogue and assistance for those affected, potentially opening pathways for negotiation and support in the community’s transition.
In a hopeful context, this could also be an opportunity for residents and the Fiji Muslim League to come together for a resolution that honors the community’s long-standing ties to the area while addressing the league’s development goals.
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