The national Fiji Day celebration is set to take place on 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 engaged in drills yesterday, involving more than 100 officers from both divisions.
During the preparations, the RFMF fired typical celebration gunshots and performed the national anthem at the venue. There were also minor inspections of floodlights, with additional units being installed by the personnel.
Divisional Police Commander North, Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka, reported that security preparations for the upcoming celebration are progressing well.
Samuela Ligairi, the special administrator of Labasa Town Council, expressed enthusiasm for what he anticipates will be a grand event. He noted that Fiji flags will be raised at each corner of Labasa’s Central Business District starting today to mark 54 years of independence. Ligairi mentioned their goal is to surpass the 2018 celebrations, which were also held in Labasa.
Paul Jaduram, president of the Macuata Tourism Association, highlighted the event as a chance for Labasa to display its warm hospitality and raise its profile as an emerging town.
Commissioner Northern, Uraia Rainima, invited everyone to join in the festivities, which will commence with a march from Y-Corner through the town at 6:30 AM.
Ligairi also announced that a national reconciliation program will be part of the Fiji Day festivities, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere attending. He emphasized that such celebrations are vital for promoting reconciliation between the Indo-Fijian and iTaukei communities, urging northern residents to participate in this important national event.