RATU Joni Madraiwiwi exemplified the true nature of a leader.
This was the view of constitution expert and renowned academic Professor Yash Ghai and his wife Jill.
In a statement issued yesterday, Dr Ghai expressed his condolences to the family of the Bauan chief.
“We have known Ratu Joni for many years and have very happy memories of our friendship. He personified what a citizen of Fiji should be.
“He was above race, regarding all the people of Fiji as one community.
“Although he came from the most distinguished chiefly family, there was not a trace of pomposity or arrogance about him, he regarded all the people of Fiji as equal.
“He was scholarly and outstanding as a lawyer. He was a man of courage and principle — for which he suffered.”
Dr Ghai said he had often turned to Ratu Joni for advice when he was chairman of the Constitution Review Commission.
“This was especially the case when I was confronted with difficult issues of balancing different communal interests.
“His wisdom, skills and modesty were appreciated throughout the South Pacific and his advice was sought by several governments.
“His passing is a great loss to Fiji, the South Pacific and his family and many friends.
“Even now, we should all be guided by his modesty, wisdom and his vision for Fiji.”
