MELANESIAN communities around Fiji were reassured of their identity as Fijians and their entitlement to enjoy every right any Fijian must have.
Speaking at Naviavia, Savusavu, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said their days of suffering from discrimination was over.
“Equality is the most basic principle of my Government and we are all equal citizens of this nation, no matter what our gender, ethnicity or faith,” Mr Bainimarama said.
“We are all Fijians no matter how long ago our ancestors first set foot on these islands,” he added.
“We all deserve equal treatment by Government and equal access to infrastructure, no matter how we vote.”
Mr Bainimarama said everyone deserved to share in the pride of being Fijian, in the beauty of the country, and in the opportunities that sprung from the land, sea and the divine spark within us.
“God created us all in his likeness and image and he frowns mightily on us if we do not treat each other with dignity, kindness and respect.
“Your ancestors came here from the Solomon Islands during the colonial era and helped build this country with their sweat and toil.
“You have lived in this land, raised your children as good Fijians and worked hard.
“Therefore, we can look with pride at the way you have adopted Fiji as a home and you are Fijians in every way.”
