The national celebration of Fiji Day, scheduled for Thursday at Subrail Park in Labasa, is in full swing as armed forces prepare with mock drills.
Yesterday, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) and the Fiji Navy conducted these drills, involving more than 100 personnel from both branches. The RFMF marked the occasion by firing traditional celebration gunshots and performing the national anthem at the site. Additionally, minor inspections of the floodlights were conducted, and personnel worked on installing extra lighting equipment.
Divisional Police Commander (DPC) North, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kemueli Baledrokadroka, confirmed that the security preparations for the event are proceeding smoothly.
Samuela Ligairi, the special administrator for Labasa Town Council, expressed optimism for a memorable event, adding that Fiji flags will be raised at each corner of the Central Business District starting today to commemorate 54 years of independence.
“We aim to make this celebration even more impressive than in 2018, when we last hosted the national event in Labasa,” Mr. Ligairi stated.
Paul Jaduram, president of the Macuata Tourism Association, shared that the occasion offers Labasa a chance to showcase its warm hospitality and boost its profile as an emerging town.
Commissioner Northern, Uraia Rainima, encouraged community participation in the festivities, which will commence with a march from Y-Corner through the town at 6:30 am.
Mr. Ligairi mentioned that a national reconciliation program would be part of the Fiji Day festivities, with the presence of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere expected. He highlighted the importance of such events in fostering reconciliation between the two major ethnic groups, Indo-Fijians and iTaukei, encouraging everyone in the northern region to join in the national celebration.