Minister for Defence Pio Tikoduadua emphasized the multifaceted nature of national security, describing it as encompassing not only physical aspects but also cultural, communal, and spiritual dimensions. He made these remarks in Parliament while expressing his support for Ratu Tevita Mara, who was recently installed as the Tui Nayau, the paramount chief of the Lauan people.
In his address, Tikoduadua shared a personal connection to Ratu Tevita, referring to him as a long-time friend and extending his best wishes and blessings for his new role. He reminisced about their shared experiences, including their time together in an officer cadet course nearly 40 years ago.
This sentiment of mentorship and guidance reflects the importance of traditional leadership in fostering community resilience and unity, sentiments echoed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and others during Ratu Tevita’s installation ceremony. Rabuka acknowledged the significance of this event as a cultural renewal for the Lau community, which has been without a paramount chief for over two decades since the passing of Ratu Tevita’s father, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara.
The installation ceremony itself was highly emotional and culturally rich, with traditional rites symbolizing the return of leadership and a reaffirmation of cultural identity. Many community members expressed their hopes for a future filled with unity and continuity under Ratu Tevita’s guidance, aiming to strengthen their traditions while addressing contemporary challenges together.
Ratu Tevita’s ascension not only marks the restoration of a vital cultural role but also instills a spirit of hope and optimism among the Lau people, as they come together to navigate the future under his leadership. This event serves as a reminder of the deep cultural ties that bind communities and the power of tradition in guiding societal progress and coherence.
This combination of support, cultural reverence, and personal connection highlights the optimistic outlook for the Lau community, reinforcing their collective identity as they honor the past while looking forward to a united future.
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