Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, has delivered a firm message following an assault on government officials in Vusasivo, Cakaudrove. He unequivocally stated that any form of violence against civil servants is intolerable. The incident involved a group that allegedly stoned a government vehicle and attacked officials while they were on duty, prompting Vosarogo to characterize this behavior as “totally unacceptable.”
In a strong warning, Vosarogo emphasized the importance of civil servants, who serve the community, and warned those engaging in violent acts. He stated, “Do not touch civil servants. Civil servants come to work for you, and if this is how they are treated while bringing public service to your community, then don’t blame them if they choose not to attend to your needs and concerns.” He highlighted that ongoing harassment and intimidation faced by public workers, including nurses and teachers, must cease.
“The law will reach you,” Vosarogo said to those involved in the stoning and attacks, underscoring a commitment to ensure that justice will be served. The Acting Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s priority to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its civil servants and announced that the Commissioner of Police has directed an operations team from Savusavu to investigate the incident and make arrests.
He urged civil servants to consider requesting police escorts when serving in areas perceived as dangerous. “While taking services to the people is important, the safety and lives of our civil servants are paramount,” Vosarogo remarked. He also extended best wishes to the injured officials, noting that most have since been discharged from the hospital while one remains under medical care.
The government’s response seeks to reinforce the protection of its civil servants and address the escalating concerns around the violence against public servants, reflecting a broader responsibility to create a safe working environment. Through such decisive actions, there is hope that communities will recognize the invaluable role of civil servants and treat them with the mutual respect they deserve. This incident may serve as a critical point to foster a greater culture of respect and cooperation between public servants and the communities they serve.
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