RATU Sir Lala Sukuna’s greatness did not arise in isolation but was shaped by the nurturing hands of family, chiefly heritage, faith, and education.
Addressing Government officials, diplomats, and members of the public at the Ratu Sukuna Day celebration held at Subrail Park in Labasa, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said we must make a deliberate decision and effort to identify and raise future leaders.
“It is, therefore, our duty today, as custodians of the vanua (tradition), lotu (religion) and the matanitu (government), to ensure that our children are guided in the same way — taught to serve, to lead with humility, and to act with wisdom and compassion,” he said.
“It is our responsibility to share and guide new generations with what was imparted to us by our past leaders and forebears, by our very own example.
“Ratu Sukuna’s path from the small town of Rakiraki to the prestigious halls of Oxford University proves that education knows no bounds when pursued with determination and discipline.”
Ratu Sukuna’s story, Mr Rabuka said, reminds us that geography and circumstances should never limit ambition.
“He was accredited as a man of two worlds. He was the bridge between the Fijian’s historical past and the modern world,” he said.
“Almost single-handedly, he was responsible for the formulation of the Fijian Administration, the Native Lands Commission, and the Native Lands Trust Board. He was a visionary leader whose legacy continues to inspire and guide us.”
The four-day celebration ended yesterday with a march led by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces through Labasa Town, attended by villagers from across Vanua Levu.
