Roko Tui warns teacher threats could cost Lau vital services

Roko Tui Lau, Jioji Tupou Kalounivalu, has strongly condemned an incident on Lakeba where four teachers were allegedly threatened by two intoxicated men, warning that violence against government workers could result in the loss of essential services in island communities.

In a statement, the Lau Provincial Council described the confrontation as a serious and unacceptable act that puts public servants at risk and undermines community development.

Following discussions with the Mata ni Tikina of Lakeba, leaders said teachers and other government officials play a vital role in delivering education and services in remote areas and must be protected and allowed to work without fear.

“Such incidents could have wider consequences for island communities,” Mr Kalounivalu said.

“The situation involving the Ono-i-Lau Health Centre as an example of how essential services can be affected when the safety of government workers is compromised.”

“We urged the communities across Lau to take responsibility for protecting teachers and other officials serving in the islands,” he said.

Leaders stressed that communities stand to lose the most if services are withdrawn.

Meanwhile, Fijian Teachers Union general secretary Muniappa Goundar called for the urgent reinstatement of an educators’ protection policy.

“That’s why we are calling for an educators protection policy to safeguard our teachers from such people,” he said.

The Provincial Council emphasised that teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future of children in the islands and must be supported and respected in their work.