Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran has condemned remarks made by Fijian Teachers Association General Secretary Paula Manumanunitoga, describing references to people being “baked” in an earth oven as unacceptable and threatening.

Kiran says such language evokes violence against people because of their ancestry and has no place in Fiji’s public discourse.

She is particularly concerned that the remarks came from the head of an organisation representing teachers, saying education leaders have a responsibility to promote respect, diversity and peaceful dialogue among young people.

The Minister warns that racial and inflammatory language from people in positions of leadership risks normalising such behaviour among children and deepening divisions between communities.

Kiran says Fiji’s indigenous identity, culture and traditions should never be used to justify racial hostility or threats.

She also stresses that descendants of Girmitiyas are part of Fiji, adding that recognising their contributions does not diminish the unique history, culture and traditions of the iTaukei people.

The Minister says people have the right to express strong political views and disagree, but political debate must not become racial intimidation or incitement to violence.

Kiran has urged Manumanunitoga to reflect on his comments, withdraw the remarks and issue an unequivocal apology.

She also believes the Fijian Teachers Association should consider the matter through its appropriate processes.

Kiran says every child in Fiji, regardless of their ethnic background, deserves to grow up respecting their own identity and that of others, with leaders working to strengthen unity rather than deepen divisions.