Two communities in north east Guadalcanal, Friday, ended a long-running land dispute that prevented them from looking each other in the eye.
In an emotional reconciliation ceremony, members of both communities apologised and hug each other as they put their pasts behind them.
The dispute started 10 years ago when boys from Kolosulu threatened and demanded money from the Numbu community over land claims.
Stanley Kilua of Kolosulu said the dispute is not helping anyone but only brought enmity between members of the two communities.
“Today, we have come to end the hostility, put behind the hatred, and embrace each other again,” Kilua said.
“The dispute has undermined and destroyed the value of togetherness that our fathers and mothers have been building from one generation to another” he added.
“Only behind of my community, we wish to apologise to the Numbu community for the hatred we’ve shown towards you over the last 10 years.”
Kilua said the situation during the ethnic tension contributed to the incident that led to the hostilities between the two communities.
“We admit that we came and disturbed, threatened and demand money from you, based on the above argument, therefore, deep within our hearts we say sorry and please accept our humble and heartiest apology.”
Thairole Poe of Numbu found no difficulty accepting the apology on behalf of his people.
He said the important thing is for members of both communities to co-exist and live peacefully.
Director of the Guadalcanal Province Peace and Reconciliation, Robin Lilo said the gathering of both parties fulfilled the dreams of restoring broken ties between the two communities.
Guadalcanal Province member for Paripao ward, Andrew Rayboy thanked leaders of both communities for organising the event.
And he encouraged community members to uphold the spirit of peace and togetherness within their communities.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
