Indigenous landowners in Fiji’s Viti Levu province are protesting against the government’s plan to build a hydro dam. According to local media, villagers from Navunikabi in Namosi are urging the Sitiveni Rabuka administration to thoroughly assess the potential impacts of this development, which is proposed to be located just one kilometer from their community.
The villagers oppose the construction by Energy Fiji Limited, a predominantly government-owned entity, and have denied access to their land for feasibility studies. Rural and Maritime Development Minister Sakiasi Ditoka stated that the coalition government supports the hydro project but emphasized the importance of respecting the community’s traditional leadership and hierarchy.
He assured reporters that the government would take into account the perspectives of the Navunikabi community and would not impose its will. The minister mentioned that a consensus-driven approach is the goal, seeking solutions for hydroelectricity that minimize environmental concerns.
However, remarks from Namosi’s paramount chief Ratu Suliano Matanitobua about potential relocation of villagers if the project advances have raised alarms among residents. The minister’s statements have reportedly shocked the villagers. Sipiriano Nariva, chair of the local landowners’ NGO ‘Lomani Au Maroroi Au,’ criticized the government for disregarding landowners’ interests in political decision-making processes.
Nariva expressed dismay over the government’s approach, stating, “What the minister just said is so surprising! It’s unbelievable; it’s so sad… We are being left behind to suffer, and we will not allow this to happen, as we will fight to stay and ensure that our generations are safe.”