Justice has finally arrived for the 14 founders of Matua Taxis in Nabua, Suva, marking a long-awaited triumph after 12 years of legal battles. This victory was celebrated with traditional kava, lovo feasts, prayers of gratitude, and relief as the founders reclaimed what was rightfully theirs. Reflecting on the journey, Matua Taxis board chairman Apisai Vasuturaga likened their struggle to the biblical tale of David versus Goliath, emphasizing their resilience against formidable challenges.
The court ruling in April favored Matua Taxis, prompting Tiko Kece Taxis co-founders Lomaca Baleilevuka and Ifereimi Kubukawa to pay over $300,000 to the Matua trustees, in addition to returning vital business assets and permits. The dispute began in 2012, fueled by claims that Baleilevuka utilized company resources without proper authorization, leading to a drawn-out legal procedure filled with delays and setbacks.
Despite the challenges, including traffic fines racking up to tens of thousands of dollars for vehicles still linked to Matua Taxis during the dispute, Vasuturaga and his team remained steadfast in their faith and commitment to justice. Their perseverance paid off, culminating in the return of 12 Land Hire number plates and a triumphant return to their original taxi base.
Vasuturaga expressed gratitude to God for sustaining them through difficult years, emphasizing that many would have given up amid such prolonged adversity. The founders are now eager to move forward with their business ambitions, intent on fostering accountability and transparency while retaining the community-focused ethos that inspired the creation of Matua Taxis.
Today, Matua Taxis boasts a fleet of over 60 vehicles, a testament to their hard work and dedication. With plans for further civil actions against their rivals to recover lost income, they’re poised to not only reclaim their past but to build a thriving future for all involved—a hopeful reminder of the power of perseverance and community spirit.
Overall, this victory represents a significant step not just for the founders, but for the principles of fairness and unity in entrepreneurship, highlighting how collective resolve can ultimately triumph over adversity.
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