The national celebration of Fiji Day is scheduled for Thursday at Subrail Park in Labasa, with preparations underway as armed forces conduct mock drills. The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) and the Fiji Navy executed drills involving over 100 personnel from both groups yesterday.
During the drills, the RFMF fired traditional celebration gunshots and performed the national anthem at the site. They also conducted minor inspections of the floodlights, installing a few additional fixtures.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kemueli Baledrokadroka, the Divisional Police Commander for the North, confirmed that security preparations for the event are proceeding smoothly.
Samuela Ligairi, the special administrator for Labasa Town Council, expressed confidence that the event will be a grand spectacle. He announced that Fiji flags will be displayed at each corner of the Central Business District of Labasa starting today to mark 54 years of independence. “We intend to outdo the celebration from 2018, the last time we hosted Fiji Day in Labasa,” Mr. Ligairi stated.
Paul Jaduram, president of the Macuata Tourism Association, highlighted that the celebration would provide Labasa an opportunity to showcase its warm hospitality and elevate its profile as a developing town.
Commissioner Northern, Uraia Rainima, encouraged the community to participate in the one-day celebration, which will kick off with a march from Y-Corner through the town at 6:30 AM.
Mr. Ligairi noted that a national reconciliation program will be included in the Fiji Day festivities, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere expected to attend. He underscored the importance of such celebrations in fostering reconciliation between the two major ethnic groups in Fiji, Indo-Fijians and iTaukei, urging the northern residents not to miss the opportunity to be part of this national event.