The Fiji Police Force is currently investigating an official complaint regarding a video that surfaced, showing a police officer who is also a pastor making derogatory remarks about the Diwali celebrations and other religious festivals. Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu confirmed that both the Criminal Investigations Department and the Internal Affairs unit are examining the officer’s conduct.
Tudravu condemned the officer’s comments as inciteful and emphasized the importance of showing respect for various faith groups within Fiji’s diverse society. The Shree Sanatan Dharm Purohit Brahman Maha Sabha Fiji has also expressed concerns, labeling the remarks as offensive and divisive. In the video, the pastor urged Christians to abstain from participating in national and cultural festivals, wrongly characterizing these celebrations as “praying to demons.”
Pundit Satnesh Sharma, the National President of the Maha Sabha, criticized the pastor’s statements for being disrespectful to Fiji’s multicultural ethos and undermining the values of peace and unity enshrined in the country’s constitution. The Maha Sabha has called for immediate disciplinary action against the pastor from the Fiji Police Force and has lodged formal complaints with relevant ministries and the CID.
In tandem with these responses, Opposition MP Vijay Nath has advocated for swift and decisive actions against the pastor, labeling the conduct as a serious threat to national harmony. He stressed that during such tumultuous times, the focus should be on unity rather than division.
Chantelle Khan, the Human Rights Commissioner, shared similar concerns, describing the officer’s derogatory remarks as detrimental to the social cohesion of Fiji. She asserted that every individual deserves to practice their faith inherently and in dignity, and underscored that hate speech targeting any religious or ethnic group is strictly prohibited by law.
Calls for promoting unity and tolerance resonated among various community leaders, urging collective action to foster dialogue and respect between different faith groups. While the current situation poses challenges, it also presents a unique opportunity for Fiji to reaffirm its commitment to interfaith harmony and diversity.
This incident marks a crucial moment for Fiji as it highlights ongoing issues related to religious intolerance but also reflects a widespread resolve among Fijian communities to uphold their shared values of respect, unity, and understanding.