Indigenous landowners in Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu are protesting the government led by Sitiveni Rabuka over plans to build a hydro dam. Villagers from Navunikabi in Namosi are urging the administration to carefully consider the potential effects of the proposed project, which is located about one kilometer from their village, on both the local community and the environment.
The local residents are opposing the development by the government majority-owned Energy Fiji Limited and are denying access for feasibility studies on their land. However, Rural and Maritime Development Minister Sakiasi Ditoka expressed that the coalition government is in favor of the project and intends to move forward, stating, “we will just go forward after hearing everyone.”
Ditoka acknowledged the tradition of leadership within the local community, saying it is essential to respect what the local vanua has expressed while also valuing the opinions of the Navunikabi villagers. He emphasized the government’s preference to find a resolution “through consensus” that is beneficial for all involved.
He further commented that there are hydroelectric solutions available that may not have as significant an environmental impact as feared, stressing that the government does not aim to interfere with the internal discussions among the people of Namosi.
In remarks reported by the state broadcaster FBC News, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, the paramount chief of the Namosi province, suggested that the villagers might be relocated if the project goes ahead. These statements have seemingly caught the villagers off guard.
Sipiriano Nariva, chair of the non-government organization ‘Lomani Au Maroroi Au’, criticized political leaders for overlooking landowners’ concerns in their resource management decisions. He stated, “What the minister just said is so surprising! It’s unbelievable; it’s so sad at the same time as they continue to bring politics into development,” adding that their community will not accept being left behind and will fight to ensure the safety of future generations.