SODELPA Urges Fijians to Respect Indigenous Traditions and Promote National Unity

The Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) has called on all Fijians to show greater respect, maturity, and national responsibility when discussing matters related to the Indigenous Fijian (iTaukei) community and its traditional leadership structures.

In a statement released today, the party emphasised that Fiji’s rich cultural, linguistic, and traditional diversity should be viewed as a source of national strength rather than division. SODELPA stressed that traditional institutions and customs of the iTaukei people must be honoured with reverence, describing them as “the enduring guardianship of our land and values over countless generations.”

The party particularly urged social media influencers and public commentators to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly, warning that careless words could inflame divisions Fiji cannot afford.

“We expect greater maturity from those who have influence over public opinion,” SODELPA said. “Freedom of expression must always be exercised with responsibility, cultural sensitivity, and a clear understanding that reckless comments can reignite divisions.”

SODELPA also reminded the public of the turmoil witnessed during the 2022 General Elections, describing it as a dark period when intolerance and hostility undermined national unity. The party warned against a repeat of such tensions, stating that Fiji’s future depends on mutual respect and the protection of the dignity of all its peoples.

“Let us move forward together—firmly committed to honouring our differences, and united by a common purpose to build a peaceful, just, and prosperous nation for all,” they concluded.