The Garavu tribe in Central Guadalcanal has presented six chupu to Paramount Chief Walton Naezon during a reconciliation ceremony held at Obo Obo village on Tuesday.
The reconciliation follows an incident last Wednesday, 21 January, when Chief Naezon’s vehicle was stoned during a confrontation at Obo Obo village near Gold Ridge.
The incident occurred after rioters—made up of youths, men and women—burnt about 30 machines belonging to Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) at the mine pit on the night of Tuesday, 20 January.
In accepting the chupu, under the pouring rain, Chief Naezon said he had forgiven those who shot at him and described himself as fortunate not to have been injured.
He reflected on traditional values, recalling the time when his late father was still alive.
“When I see pigs laid out like this today, it reminds me of preparations for a feast. It tells me that I am free from problems,” he said.
The Garavu tribe also presented one chupu to the Malango and Bahomea youths, acknowledging their decision not to retaliate and encouraging them to work together again as brothers and sisters.
Meanwhile, Solomon Star understands that the major Chacha tribe has also presented chupu to Chief Naezon for the incident that occurred on their land.
Chief Titus Soba declared that this would be the last time any riot would take place at Obo Obo village.
