Today is a new beginning for the Naitasiri province and the Government.

We should engage often in such forums to discuss issues that will benefit Fiji, especially our future generation.

Those are the words of Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama last night as he received a delegation of chiefs from 16 districts of Naitasiri who presented their traditional apology for past indiscretions and also pledged their support to the Prime Minister and the government.

Commodore Bainimarama told the chiefs of Naitasiri that unity is the essence for progress.        

While accepting the tabua, the Prime Minister told the chiefs that we need to emphasize to our people and children the importance of unity for it is the essence of prosperity.

He said that successful changes will only happen when people are united over a common goal.

A large delegation from the province presented the tabua or whale's tooth to Commodore Bainimarama asking for forgiveness on behalf of the people of the province and Naitasiri high chief, Ratu Inoke Takiveikata.

The delegation also included Ratu Inoke's wife, Adi Lagamu Takiveikata.

The Prime Minister was told by the tikina heads that Ratu Inoke had asked them to visit him and ask him for forgiveness.

Two busloads of men and women including chiefs of all districts in the province were at the Prime Minister's residence at Muanikau Road for the presentation.

Last week a delegation led by Ratu Jioji Cakobau, Ratu Jope Seniloli and Josefa Serulagilagi visited the Prime Minister on behalf of the people of Tailevu and the Tailevu Provincial Council.       

They also pledged their support to the government and thanked Commodore Bainimarama for the developments occurring in the province.

Meanwhile Commodore Bainimarama will lead a delegation from the military this afternoon to visit former President, Ratu Josefa Iloilo.

They will visit the Tui Vuda in Viseisei village in Lautoka.



Story by: Vijay Narayan