Acting Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica condemned the stoning of Shree Baba Ragho Dass Vishnu Temple in Sawani, Nausori, calling the attack a serious assault on Fiji’s values of peace and multiculturalism. The incident disrupted a religious gathering on Tuesday evening and was described as a desecration of a sacred space and an attack on national unity. Kamikamica stressed that violence, intimidation, and religious bigotry have no place in the country and will not be tolerated. A police investigation is underway, and those responsible are expected to be brought to justice.
He reaffirmed that the Constitution guarantees every Fijian the right to worship freely without fear or interference and assured the Hindu community, and all faith groups, that places of worship will be safeguarded. Kamikamica highlighted that diversity is Fiji’s strength and called for renewed commitment to unity, respect, and tolerance to ensure sacred spaces remain protected.
Context and broader response: This incident fits into a broader pattern of attacks on places of worship that have drawn strong condemnation from leaders across Fiji. Similar acts have targeted temples such as the Samabula Shiv Mandir in Suva and the Vunicuicui Shiv Mandir in Labasa, prompting renewed calls for protective measures and interfaith dialogue. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka condemned the Sawani attack, stressing that Fiji’s strength lies in its multi-ethnic and multi-religious makeup and urging leaders and citizens to uphold the rule of law as investigations proceed. Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad and other officials have echoed these calls, emphasizing unity, tolerance, and the need for swift investigations.
Leaders have urged closer cooperation among government, law enforcement, religious communities, and civil society to prevent future incidents. Readers are encouraged to report threats or hate incidents and to participate in upcoming interfaith dialogues and community meetings aimed at strengthening bonds among Fiji’s diverse religious communities. Some editors are exploring sidebars or quick-reference timelines to help readers understand the pattern of incidents and the government’s protective measures.
Outlook and are-positive note: Despite the violence, there is a hopeful sense that unity, dialogue, and strong protections for sacred spaces can reinforce Fiji’s social fabric, ensuring that all faiths can worship in safety and harmony.
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Editor’s note: Consider adding a sidebar with a timeline of recent temple-related incidents, guidance on reporting suspicious activity, and information about upcoming interfaith events to help readers stay informed and engaged in safeguarding places of worship.
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