Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka paid tribute to his former teammate in the national rugby team, Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese, following his passing.
“Today, we mourn the passing of a great Fijian rugby legend, Ilaitia Tuisese,” Rabuka stated. He recounted the memories of playing alongside Tuisese as a prop forward during the national team’s tour of England and Wales in 1970, which coincided with the centennial celebrations of the English Rugby Football Union.
“One particular day, the 10th of October 1970, is forever imprinted in my memory,” he reminisced. As the team prepared to take on the British Combined Services, they heard what they believed to be their national anthem. “Initially, we were focused on our gear until I realized that two of our colleagues, Officer Cadet Alex Eastgate and Ratu Josua Rabukawaqa, were standing at attention by the flagpole. I urged my teammates to do the same.”
Rabuka explained that he mistakenly thought the flag being raised was that of the Royal Air Force due to its colors, only to later understand they were witnessing the raising of Fiji’s new flag and hearing their anthem for the first time in that historic moment.
He noted that the referee that day was Air Commodore Lamb, who had recently completed a significant mission by extracting a spy from behind the USSR border. Rabuka described the experience as unforgettable and emphasized the lasting impact of such moments.
“Ilaitia was a formidable presence that day as he was in every match. He was not just a teammate but a leader, an influential figure on the field, and a true friend off it. His remarkable skills and dedication earned him the admiration of all who played with him. We celebrated numerous victories together, including a noteworthy win against Oxford University, and those moments will always be cherished.”
Rabuka also remarked on Tuisese’s legacy, stating, “His impact on rugby and his role in shaping the future of Fijian rugby will never be overlooked. Today, we honor not only a legend but a man whose absence will be profoundly felt.”
“Rest in peace, Ilaitia Tuisese. Your legacy will be enduring in the hearts of all who knew you and in the chronicles of Fijian rugby.”