Fiji is the only motherland we’ve got and know, and the Vanua has been there for us - Kiran

This is the only motherland we’ve got and know, and the Vanua has been there for us since we first landed.

This was the sentiment expressed by the Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Sashi Kiran during the Thanksgiving and Reconciliation Service that was held at the Vodafone Arena today.

She says their people that came to this island 144 years ago, do not consider India as their motherland, it maybe their grandmother land, but Fiji is the only motherland they’ve got.

Kiran said to the Prime Minister that it is painful for them to hear if they are told they do not belong.

She adds they are thankful to the Vanua for accepting them.

Kiran acknowledged the President of the Methodist Church in Fiji Reverend Ili Vunisuwai for stepping up and organising this event and also thanked the Prime Minister for having the courage to ask for forgiveness.

The Assistant Minister also asked for forgiveness for the way Indo-Fijians have treated the iTaukei and says that this reconciliation service has mended the bonds that were broken.