Opposition leader Inia Seruiratu calls for unity as Fiji marks Girmit Day

Inia Seruiratu has paid tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the Girmitiyas, saying their struggles and contributions helped shape the Fiji known today.

In his Girmit Day message, the Opposition Leader said the Girmit story remains one of the most powerful chapters in Fiji’s history, reflecting not only hardship and sacrifice, but also courage, endurance, and hope.

Seruiratu noted that between 1879 and 1916, thousands of men, women, and children were brought to Fiji under the indenture system, where many endured separation from family, harsh working conditions, and deep uncertainty about their future.

Yet, he said, through pain and sacrifice, they laid the foundation for generations to come.

“Their perseverance, determination and belief in a better future transformed adversity into opportunity and contributed greatly to the social, cultural and economic development of our beloved nation,” he said.

Seruiratu said the story of the Girmitiyas is not simply a chapter of suffering, but a lesson in courage, resilience, and the power of unity.

He said Fiji’s strength has always come from its people, ordinary men and women from all backgrounds who work hard, support one another, and believe in the promise of a better tomorrow.

As the nation reflects on the Girmit legacy, Seruiratu called on all Fijians to embrace the values of sacrifice, resilience, discipline, and service, and to continue working together for the progress of the country.

“Let us celebrate Girmit Day not as divided communities, but as one people, holding hands in solidarity and moving our country forward together as a united Fiji,” he said.

Seruiratu added that the legacy of the Girmitiyas should continue to inspire every generation of Fijians.