PM commends headmen’s actions

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Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama at the damaged Korolevu crossing in Wainunu Bua. Picture SERAFINA SILAITOGA

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama commended the pre-cyclone decisions made by village elders and headmen on Vanua Levu, he said this had saved many lives.

In commending the work of village headmen in super storm Yasa affected areas, the PM said the number of deaths was not as bad as STC Winston.

Speaking in the iTaukei language, he told villagers of Cogea, Bua, that decisions taken by village leaders reflected effective leadership for which he was thankful.

Cogea headman Atekini Nairibuli said they moved all villagers to the church building at midday Thursday, December 17.

“We didn’t want anyone to get injured or to lose their lives so we mobilised a team to move around on Wednesday, a day before the cyclone, to inform them about the weather,” he said.

“While most adhered to our instructions, some stayed in their houses thinking that STC Yasa wouldn’t be strong.

But they changed their minds and moved when water level started to rise.”

In Sawani Village, Bua, village headman Ovini Matavesi said they managed to mobilise people quickly because everyone followed the instructions given.

“By midday (Thursday), we moved our elderly, the disabled, expectant mothers and children to the five evacuation centres that were prepared,” he said.

“So when STC Yasa arrived, we were all in our ECs.” In Saolo Village, Ramasi Salauneune said they moved everyone to the hall by midday last Thursday.

“A few of us were still securing buildings when STC Yasa arrived and it was too late for us to run to the hall.

“So we sheltered under the house to protect ourselves from the strong winds and heavy rain.”

In Daria, villager Lisala Cukicuki said super storm Yasa was “the most dangerous cyclone because it stayed with us all night compared with STC Winston which only lasted two hours”.

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