Our nation like many others, face challenges that tests our resolve: the rise in the drug crisis, the spread of HIV infections, and the lingering divisions that sometimes keep our communities apart, but even a flicker of light can break through darkness.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlighted this in his Diwali message extending warm greetings to our Hindu brothers and sisters, and indeed to every Fijian who embraces this sacred occasion of light, love and togetherness.
Rabuka says Diwali marks the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya – a journey of righteousness, endurance and the triumph of light over darkness.
He says the people of Ayodhya lit rows of lamps to welcome Lord Ram home, a symbol of truth overcoming deception, of hope triumphing over despair, of unity over division.
The Prime Minister says in Fiji today, this story carries deep meaning, as we celebrated Fiji Day just days ago, we reaffirmed our shared purpose — to build a united, peaceful, and prosperous nation.
He says Diwali now calls us to continue that journey by nurturing the light within us — the light of truth, compassion, and justice and each of us holds the power to illuminate a path forward.
Rabuka says the principles of the Ocean of Peace — peace, unity, forgiveness, and inclusive progress — find true expression in the meaning of Diwali.
He says this is not just a festival of lights, but a call to action to bring healing where there is pain, dialogue where there is stubbornness, and unity where there is division.
Rabuka says it is our collective duty to each other as parents, as teachers, as elders and as youths that each of us has a significant part to play in bringing the light of hope, truth and unity into every corner of our society.
He says the Festival of Lights is a time of self-reflection.
The Prime Minister says we must look within and confront the darkness of selfishness, resentment and indifference and we must open our hearts to understanding, humility, and kindness.
He says our diverse and vibrant communities are the very fabric of our nation and the source of our greatest strength, making us a rich and resilient family as this is at the core of our strategic personality.
Rabuka says we cannot move forward in prosperity if any member of our community is left behind be it due to poverty, addiction or prejudice.
He says to those individuals and families who have experienced injustices because of our past political upheavals and who still carry the pain of those divisions – your stories matter.
The Prime Minister says the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission now exists to hear people.
He says and as they embark on the work of the Constitutional Review Commission, he urges all citizens to take part in the review for the 2013 Constitution.
Rabuka says the people’s voice, hopes, and vision for our future are vital, so let this process be guided by light — not by fear or blame, but by courage and shared conviction.
He says tonight, as the lamps of Diwali flicker across our islands, let each flame remind us of our responsibility – to be bearers of light in our homes, in our communities and in the journey, we’re now taking as a nation.
The Prime Minister says let us ensure that good prevails over evil, and let us be the light that binds our islands with love, unity and justice.
He adds let us walk boldly towards a future where all Fijians thrive together, in the full light of dignity, equality and faith that Fiji’s brightest days are still ahead.
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