Youth organisation criticises anti-dredging petition

A group of youths has voiced concerns about a petition opposing dredging, saying that the request was not made in consultation with other community members. 

Jubaniwai Youths alleged in a press release that the Jubaniwai Yaucola Committee from Nasigatoka District in Nadroga-Navosa, which presented the petition calling for an end to Magma Mines Ltd's activities, had acted "without a thorough, transparent consultative process" and did not represent the views of other villagers, schools, churches, business community and tourism operators. 

"This misalignment has caused unease among residents, many of whom are still seeking clarity on the implications of dredging operations in our area," the statement read.

"We are troubled by the stance taken by these village administrators. Their opposition to dredging reflects a lack of sound judgment, especially when no practical alternatives have been presented by them to address this urgent issue.

"This erodes trust and raises legitimate questions about the integrity of local decision making, and this we find absolutely ridiculous and irresponsible."

The group acknowledged concerns about the environmental harms of dredging, such as its impact on traditional food sources, but cautioned against opposing the practice without proposing other viable solutions.

"We respectfully ask: what solution have the village representatives offered to effectively mitigate flooding in Sigatoka Town?" the statement read.

"We feel compelled to acknowledge that their position may be influenced by motives not yet made transparent to the people.

"Our voices should not be sidelined for the benefit of an opaque agenda."

The group argued that Sigatoka, a popular tourism destination, remained highly flood-prone. They stated that despite efforts to address the issue, recent flooding demonstrated that flood mitigation initiatives, such as dredging, still played a crucial role.  

"We urge the Government of Fiji to review the petition presented by the village administrators with caution," the statement noted.

"Engage directly with grassroots communities - especially youth - for implementation of viable flood mitigation strategies such as the Emergency Rivers or Creeks Desilting Works for Flood Mitigation Purposes announced by the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways.

"And support responsible dredging practices as part of a broader, evidence-based solution to protect livelihoods."

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