Fiji needs to stand together against attacks on religion, FCOSS urges

The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has condemned recent attacks on places of worship and desecration of holy books, warning that such acts threaten Fiji’s long tradition of religious harmony.

The organisation said the desecration of sacred texts in Labasa and damage to a Hindu temple in Suva were not isolated incidents, but acts that “undermine the spirit of our shared way of life, where people of many different faiths have long lived together in respect and harmony.”

“These acts have caused pain to our Hindu and Muslim brothers and sisters and shaken the sense of safety for all Fijians,” said FCOSS National President Sepesa Rasili.

Acting Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, speaking at a Hindu peace gathering in Suva earlier this week, also condemned the attacks.

“Attacks on any religion have no place in our country,” he said, urging greater dialogue to strengthen understanding and unity.

FCOSS said it strongly supports this call.

The council has issued a nationwide appeal for collective action:

• Leaders must lead: Religious, community and government leaders should “clearly speak and act against religious intolerance.”
• Protect sacred places: Communities, law enforcement and civil society must work together to safeguard temples, mosques, churches and all places of worship.
• Dialogue for understanding: Interfaith dialogue is needed to “heal wounds, dispel fears and build lasting bonds of respect.”
• Swift justice: Perpetrators of hate-driven acts must face “transparent and timely legal processes” to maintain public trust.

FCOSS also directed a message to faith communities, particularly Christian churches, which make up the largest denomination in Fiji.

With major gatherings underway, including the Methodist Church of Fiji conference, the Assemblies of God meetings, and the Catholic Women’s League convention, the council urged churches to use the moment for reflection and leadership.

“As the faith community with the largest number of members in Fiji, Christian churches carry a particular responsibility to help guide our nation through this challenge,” Mr Rasili said.

“Your voices and leadership are vital. By speaking out for unity and acting as examples of kindness and respect, you can inspire hope and remind our nation that Fiji’s strength lies in its diversity.”

He added that FCOSS will continue working with partners to “support dialogue, convene communities, and advocate for a Fiji where every faith is honoured, every sacred space is safe, and every individual feels a true sense of belonging.”