Naitasiri people present traditional apology to Methodist Church

Today marks a new dawn for the people of Naitasiri after they presented a traditional apology or “Matanigasau” to the Methodist Church of Fiji for the action of their forefathers against Reverend Thomas Baker.

Reverend Baker along with eight Fijian followers was killed some 144 years ago for insulting a chief by touching his hair.

Methodist Church of Fiji President, Reverend Ame Tugaue accepted the apology and thanked the descendants of today for realizing their weaknesses that their forefathers may have done against Rev Thomas Baker.

Rev Tugaue said the people will be rewarded in due course.

Meanwhile a church service was held at the Baker Hall in Davuilevu today.

This incident had occurred in July 1867 and the axe used to kill Baker is still displayed in the village of Nabutatau.

Story by: Selina Navuso, Tokasa Rainima and Praneeta Deo