Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka expressed his deep sorrow over the death of his former national rugby team-mate, Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese.
“Today, we mourn the loss of a true legend in Fijian rugby, Ilaitia Tuisese,” he stated.
Rabuka reminisced about their time together, highlighting their shared experience as prop forwards during the national team’s tour of England and Wales in 1970, which was part of the centennial celebrations of the English Rugby Football Union.
He recalled the memorable day of October 10, 1970, when they prepared to compete against the British Combined Services. As the band began to play what they believed was their national anthem, “Meda dau doka…”, they were oblivious to the significance of the moment while adjusting their gear. It was only when he saw other officers standing at attention that he encouraged his teammates to do the same.
Rabuka initially mistook the flag being raised for the Royal Air Force’s due to its colors, only to realize moments later that they were witnessing the inaugural raising of the new Fijian flag, accompanied by the first performance of their anthem.
He noted the referee that day, Air Commodore Lamb, who had recently evacuated a Cold War spy from behind enemy lines, making the occasion even more remarkable.
“Ilaitia stood strong that day, just like he did in every match,” Rabuka reflected. “He was not only my teammate but also a leader and a true friend. His remarkable skills and dedication earned him the admiration of everyone who played alongside him. We celebrated many victories together, including our iconic win against Oxford University, and I will always treasure those memories.”
Rabuka emphasized that Tuisese’s impact transcended the sport, with his influence in molding the future of Fijian rugby remaining significant.
“Today, we honor a legend and a man whose presence will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, Ilaitia Tuisese. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew you and in the chronicles of Fijian rugby.”