Fijian Teachers Association General Secretary Paula Manumanunitoga has publicly apologised to the Indo-Fijian community over comments he made in a social media post this week.

In a public apology, Manumanunitoga said his remarks were made in retaliation to what he described as racist comments directed at Fiji’s chiefs in various Facebook posts and comments.

He said the comments were a direct insult to the Indigenous Fijian community and questioned why those who were now criticising him had not addressed the remarks directed at the chiefs.

Manumanunitoga also called on Indo-Fijian leaders across different sectors to address racist comments on social media as soon as they are identified.

Despite issuing the apology, he maintained that Fiji’s chiefs must be respected and should not be subjected to swearing or disrespect.

“I would not have uttered such remarks had I not read what they said in their comments,” he said.

Manumanunitoga said he had many Indo-Fijian friends and colleagues with whom he shared good relationships, adding that he generally got along with people of different races.

He said he could not accept racist remarks and that his comments were made in retaliation to what he had read online.

In his apology, Manumanunitoga asked members of the public who may have been offended to accept his apology and forgive him.

“Please accept my sincere apology. Please forgive me if I may have offended you in any way,” he said.