On July 19, 1977, stores in Suva closed their doors at 3:35 PM as approximately 3,000 individuals participated in a protest against foreign involvement in Fiji’s domestic issues during the dock strike crisis. The demonstration, organized by Liebling Marlow and a committee of 13, featured a crowd that waved placards and was led by Mrs. Marlow alongside BD Lakshman, a pioneer of the trade union movement in Fiji, who was in a wheelchair.
Outside the Phoenix Theatre, a somber yet spirited gathering took place, with children and signs in hand. Most participants were women, including nuns, housewives, retail workers, and the wives of politicians. The march also included ex-servicemen adorned with their medals, school children, and local community leaders.
Notable figures in attendance included Finance Minister Charles Stinson, Commerce, Industry and Co-operatives Minister Edward Beddoes, and retiring Attorney-General John Falvey. The crowd, described as good-natured, filled the route, with employees from nearby businesses showing their support by applauding the marchers.
As the Government film unit and a New Zealand television crew documented the event, the demonstrators slowly proceeded along Rodwell Rd and Victoria Pde, guided by banners stating “Fiji for Fiji” and other messages such as “Keep the Kiwis out,” “Stand by your country,” “Right on Ratu Mara,” “Hands off Fiji,” and “Fiji first, no outside interference.” Police rerouted traffic during the 45-minute march past closed shops, with only Burns Philp (South Seas) Co Ltd remaining open, though it had no customers as most staff joined the demonstrators.
Prime Minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara engaged with the protesters on the waterfront, addressing a gathering of around 6,000 people. In her passionate speech, Mrs. Marlow expressed that her previous complaint to The Fiji Times about the ongoing strikes was unintended but highlighted the public’s desire for a better future and affirmed national sovereignty.
Mr. Lakshman clarified that the protest aimed to support law and order rather than oppose unionism. Ratu Mara described the march as a spontaneous and encouraging show of support for the government’s response to the dock strike, warning against the potential dangers of foreign trade unions encroaching on Fiji’s independence. The then-leader of the Opposition, Siddiq Koya, dismissed the demonstration as a tactic by the Alliance Party.