The rugby community in Fiji mourns the loss of a significant figure, former national captain, head coach, and administrator Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese (Snr). The 77-year-old passed away last Saturday at his home in Nausori after a brief illness, as confirmed by his family.
Ratu Ilaitia was a multifaceted individual who not only excelled in rugby and administration but also played a vital role in national development. He served as Minister for Regional Development and Multi-Ethnic Affairs in the interim government of 2000, and later held the position of Minister for Agriculture, Sugar, and Land Resettlement after the 2001 general elections.
Inducted into the Fiji Rugby Union Hall of Fame, Ratu Ilaitia was a pioneer of sevens rugby in Fiji. He captained the Fiji sevens team in 1977 to their inaugural victory at the Hong Kong Sevens tournament and returned as the coach in 1980, leading the team to another Cup final win.
Former teammate Pio Bosco Tikoisuva remembered him as a true gentleman both on and off the field. They played together in the historic match where Fiji triumphed over the British Lions 25-21 in 1977, culminating in their joint induction as Life Members of the FRU in April 2019. Tikoisuva praised Ratu Ilaitia’s expertise in lineouts and his sportsmanship, highlighting their time touring England in the 1970s where they defeated the British Barbarians.
Ratu Ilaitia made his international debut in 15s rugby on June 25, 1969. Sale Sorovaki, Fiji Rugby Union’s general manager for operations and development, expressed the void his passing creates, noting Ratu Ilaitia’s role as a knowledgeable adviser in rugby matters.
Viliame Takayawa, secretary of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA), reflected on Ratu Ilaitia’s contributions to land management and development for indigenous communities and acknowledged his steadfast support for the party.
At the time of his passing, Ratu Ilaitia was the chairman of the Fiji SUN board. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. Funeral arrangements will be announced shortly.