Prasad honours Girmitiyas, calls for unity and resilience

National Federation Party (NFP) leader Professor Biman Prasad has paid tribute to the Girmitiyas and their descendants, describing their journey as one of sacrifice, resilience, and nation-building that continues to shape Fiji today.

In a message marking Girmit Day, the NFP leader said May 15 serves as a powerful reminder of the arrival of the first Girmitiyas to Fiji on May 14, 1879, beginning a chapter that would profoundly influence the country’s history and development.

Professor Prasad said Fiji honours the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the men and women who arrived under the Girmit system, many of whom endured hardship, separation from their homeland, and an uncertain future.

“They arrived through hardship and uncertainty, separated from their homeland, yet through determination, faith and perseverance, they endured and built new lives for future generations,” he said.

Professor Prasad said the story of Girmit is not only one of suffering, but also one of contribution, hope, and nation-building.

He noted that through the sugar industry, which remained the backbone of Fiji’s economy for generations, the Girmitiyas and their descendants played a major role in building farms, businesses, schools, and communities, while placing strong emphasis on education, hard work, and family values.

He said their contribution became part of the larger story of Fiji, alongside the efforts of all communities who helped shape the nation.

Reflecting on Fiji’s political and social history, Professor Prasad acknowledged that the country has experienced moments of division and pain, but said the true legacy of the Girmitiya is not bitterness.

“It is resilience. It is dignity. It is mutual respect and the courage to keep building a better Fiji together,” he said.

Professor Prasad also highlighted the historic role of the National Federation Party, noting that in 1974 former NFP leader Siddiq Koya worked alongside former Prime Minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to have Diwali and the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday recognised as public holidays.

He also noted that in 2023, #Fiji’s coalition government formally recognised Girmit Day as a national public holiday for all Fijians.

On behalf of the National Federation Party, Professor Prasad wished all Fijians a meaningful and reflective Girmit Day, urging the nation to continue carrying forward the values of hard work, dignity, compassion, education, unity, and mutual respect.