The vanua of Korocau in Cakaudrove last night sought forgiveness (matanigasau) and pledged their support to the FijiFirst Government.

Korocau people are traditional warriors of the Tui Cakau, the title for the paramount chief of Cakaudrove. Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu is a Member of Parliament and President of the Opposition party SODELPA.  But he has announced that he will not seek re-election next year.

Cakaudrove is regarded as the SODELPA stronghold in the North.

But yesterday, village elders, parents and children flocked to the Nakobo green to welcome Mr Bainimarama and his delegation.

Nakobo Villager Taniela Caucau.
Photo: Josaia Ralago

Speaking on behalf of the vanua, Taniela Caucau presented a tabua (whale’s tooth), sasa brooms, mats and other items to thank Mr Bainimarama for visiting their shores.

Mr Bainimarama was there to hand over a fibreglass boat for the villagers to help them keep poachers away from their traditional fishing grounds declared as tabu areas.

“If it was up to us we would have brought more (tabua) just to show you how blessed and fortunate we are to have you here today.” Mr Caucau said during the tabua presentation.

“While this is our token of appreciation, this is also our way of asking you for forgiveness,” he said.

“We apologise for all those times that we pushed you and your Government away especially when you first came to power.

“But you have proven to us and to Fiji that you continue to meet our needs. Attending to issues which might not seem important to others. You and your Government continue to back us up, to ensure that we have access to services which were once a mere dream.

“The way that you ‘walk the talk’ has been apparent to us all, showing that you care and we are truly thankful.

“We hope you can forgive us. Today we pledge our support to you and your Government.”

Mr Bainimarama received the kamunaga (tabua) assuring the people that they would continue to strive to ensure equal opportunities for all.

The traditional ceremony was performed in a grand affair at the Nakobo Village green.

Yesterday’s meeting was a significant breakthrough for the Bainimarama government. 

Edited by Karalaini Waqanidrola

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