The Turaga na Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, has issued a stern warning to anyone from his province thinking of engaging in drug-related activities that they will not be allowed to live in any village or community within the Namosi Province.
Speaking to fijivillage News in the iTaukei language, Ratu Suliano says he raised this issue in today’s Great Council of Chiefs meeting and has also reminded the elders, Tikina and Yavusa reps from his province during their Bose Vanua.
He says he has witnessed firsthand the damage that drugs can bring to a community or a village, and he does not want his people to get trapped in such situations.
He adds that the Vanua plays a huge role in driving the awareness of drugs in villages, and if the Vanua is not strong, then the people will be weak.
The Turaga Na Tui Namosi says they will be celebrating Namosi Day next Wednesday and Thursday at the Namosi Provincial Council compound, where the focus of the celebration will be on raising awareness of drugs.
Ratu Suliano says the province will be fully engaged in this, and there will also be an oratory contest for students on drugs.
He says that he has told the Bose Vanua about his aim of making Namosi a drug-free province in the next 3 years, and if this is not achieved, he will go for another 2 years.
He also says the law that has been established is that if anyone is found engaging in drug-related activities, they have to clear from the province.
Ratu Suliano adds after the person leaves the province, then he will talk to the parents because everything starts from home.
He says Namosi wants change, and he saw when he was imprisoned the negative and harmful effect that drug has on our lives.
He adds that their next Bose Vanua will be held next month, where he will share what was discussed in the GCC meeting.
The Turaga Na Tui Namosi also highlighted his concern that some parents are not taking their parental responsibility seriously, as they are mostly seen engaged in grog sessions or other social activities.
