We need to protect and honour individuals fundamental rights and freedom of worship- Gavoka

As we celebrate Diwali, we also emphasize the need to protect and honour the fundamental rights of individuals in exercising their rights and freedom of worship.

This was highlighted by SODELPA Leader Viliame Gavoka in his Diwali message.

Gavoka says over the years, the Indo-Fijian community has made enormous contributions to the growth and development of our beloved nation.

He adds their commitment and service to society, people to people and Fiji in general is always an inspiration to us all.

Gavoka says Diwali symbolizes victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

He further says SODELPA believes that recent lockdowns due to the pandemic was a period of darkness for our country and people.

However, Gavoka says it was through the resilience and solidarity of the people of Fiji, we were able to collectively dispel the darkness, enabling our economy to steadily return to normalcy, our people reporting to work, opening of our borders and the ability to now get together as families.

Gavoka adds the celebration of Diwali will be marked by some 315,000 Indo-Fijians around the country, whose forefathers have lived and toiled these lands for many decades.