Fiji’s inextricable link to the late Queen Elizabeth II continues even in her passing with a young Fijian soldier chosen to be a part of the late monarch’s pallbearer team.
Peni Tubuna of Narocivo, Rewa, a member of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, said he was proud to be chosen for such an important role.
“I was informed by my superiors that I would be a pallbearer on the day Her Majesty passed on,” the 21-year-old said.
“I felt blessed that being a Fijian, I was given such an important task but I accepted it with humility because this is my job, it is a role I have to fulfill as a soldier.
“I informed my family back home and they were so proud and happy for me.”
Mr Tubuna, who shares maternal links to Muanaicake, Vutia in Rewa, is part of the Royal Regiment Of Scotland, more commonly known as the 5 Scots.
A picture of Mr Tubuna and the 5 Scots Regiment soldiers carrying Queen Elizabeth II’s casket was first shared in the British Royals social media portal that went viral on the internet yesterday.
“To be chosen to carry Her Majesty’s casket is indeed an honour and I feel humbled to be bestowed with such a unique opportunity.
“I’m so super excited to be part of Her Majesty’s burial ceremony.”
On her official Facebook page, Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa said: “Fiji may not be fully observing protocol of Her late Majesty’s passing” but she was glad to see a Fijian participating closely as pallbearer”.
“The young Fijian lad may have not been fully aware of how Fiji cherished the late monarch but scenes of him performing gave closure to many Fijians watching back home,” Ro Teimumu said in her post.
“Fiji is proud and I am more than proud to see a Rewan doing duty to my sovereign Queen.
“Vinaka vakalevu tagane, you’ve done us at home proud.”
