Landowners of Mount Kasi in Cakaudrove have strongly denied claims by the Ministry of Lands that they have agreed to the government’s decision to issue a Special Prospecting Licence (SPL) to Vatukoula Gold Mines Ltd. Emori Bukadina, a spokesperson for the mataqali (clan), stated that there has been no shift from their established position against the development by VGM.
Previous communications from the Ministry of Lands suggested that the landowners of Yanawai in Dawara Village had shown commitment by presenting a tabua (a traditional Fijian artifact used as a gesture of exchange or agreement) during consultations. However, Bukadina clarified that no such agreement had been made with their knowledge or consent. In fact, he highlighted that their clan, Mataqali Naveitokaki, had declined to attend a recent meeting at Dawara Village on September 5th, indicating their dissenting stance. He emphasized that any representation of their attendance or agreement was a misrepresentation of facts, as their mataqali name had been erroneously included in the presentation.
Bukadina reiterated that Mataqali Naveitokaki has maintained a cooperation with Aquilo Gold for six years and wishes to continue this partnership, opposing any proposals related to VGM. He also accused the government of failing to cooperate and interfering with their rights, which have been documented in their objections dating back six years. The clan insists on their constitutional right to select their business partners and stands against any imposed partnership with VGM.
This ongoing conflict highlights the persistent struggle of landowners to assert their rights in the face of governmental decisions regarding land and mineral resources. Despite several engagements and consultations, the landowners’ steadfast opposition signifies a broader theme of land rights and agency. Previous articles have underlined similar sentiments where the landowners reiterated their legal rights and stressed the significance of meaningful dialogue that respects their choices.
While such disputes pose challenges, they also open opportunities for fostering better communication and understanding between the government and local communities. Constructive dialogue could potentially lead to collaborations that blend economic aspirations with the recognition of indigenous rights and sustainable practices, benefiting all stakeholders involved.
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