Great Council of Chiefs Condemns Temple Attack

The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has broken its silence on the desecration of the Samabula Shiv Mandir, calling it a “senseless act” that strikes at the heart of Fiji’s values of unity, mutual respect, and freedom of worship.

In an article in The Fiji Times, chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula strongly condemned the attack and emphasised that while its primary mission is to advance indigenous interests, the council’s values are anchored in equal protection for all Fijians, regardless of background.

“The GCC strongly condemns the attack on the Samabula Shiv Mandir,” Ratu Viliame said.

He went on to state that one of the GCC’s strategic goals is to promote a leadership system that guarantees indigenous rights while fostering a society where all people “have equal voice and freedom of worship.” The temple attack was not only a religious affront but also a national threat to social cohesion.

Ratu Viliame acknowledged that the attack had sparked fear and outrage, but called for Fijians to come together and defend the nation's founding principles.

He stressed that unity and inclusivity are the foundation of a strong Fiji, and called on the public to reject attempts to divide the country along political or religious lines.