In a heartfelt and symbolic act, the Minister for Lands, Filimoni Vosarogo, delivered a tabua (whale’s tooth) to the community of Namosi during a village assembly yesterday, extending an apology on behalf of both the current government and previous administrations. This gesture comes in response to the community’s decisive disapproval of the renewal for the Namosi Joint Venture Special Prospecting Licence, highlighting the ongoing grievances stemming from decades of mineral exploration in the area.
During the presentation, Mr. Vosarogo expressed his recognition of the profound pain and trauma the landowners have experienced as a result of the exploration activities. “There might have been strong words spoken. This is our apology — not only the apology of the recent Government but all other Governments before us,” he stated, stressing the importance of acknowledging past shortcomings, including the failures of consultation and transparency.
He called for forgiveness, emphasizing that this moment was not just about the present but also about healing old wounds for future generations. His appeal for unity within the community reflected a desire to forge stronger bonds and improve engagement between the government and the people of Namosi.
Echoing past initiatives where government officials actively sought to reconcile and rejuvenate trust within local communities, Vosarogo’s actions parallel broader efforts aimed at fostering discussions that prioritize the voices of landowners. Similar gestures have been witnessed in other contexts, such as a formal request for forgiveness from the Minister for iTaukei Affairs to the community of Macuata and previous military apologies aimed at mending historical grievances.
This commitment to accountability and open dialogue underlines a hopeful outlook for future development in the Namosi region. By embracing a more inclusive approach, there is potential for lasting change that honors the concerns of the community while balancing essential development needs.
Such initiatives not only address past wrongs but also pave the way for a collaborative future, promoting peace, understanding, and equitable progress for all stakeholders involved in the region’s development.
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