The late Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Vatimi Rayalu, will be laid to rest at the Old Suva Cemetery this coming Friday, following his passing last Thursday at the age of 57. A career civil servant who transitioned into politics in 2022, Rayalu’s contributions to the agriculture sector were significant, earning him respect and admiration throughout Fiji.
The reguregu (traditional mourning ceremonies) will begin on Wednesday at the Vodafone Arena on Laucala Bay Road, with the funeral service scheduled for June 20, 2025. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that the Coalition Government will take a leading role in organizing the funeral arrangements, emphasizing the need to respect the family’s wishes during this time of sorrow.
“Honourable Rayalu was a humble yet visionary leader, whose dedication to improving agriculture will remain part of his legacy,” said Prime Minister Rabuka. “He served his nation with dignity, and his passing is a huge loss to Fiji.”
In previous announcements following his sudden death, Rayalu was remembered for his compassionate leadership and commitment to serving farmers and rural communities. His work in office was marked by a proactive approach to make agriculture more accessible and supportive for those in need.
As the nation mourns the loss of Rayalu, there is an opportunity to reflect on his achievements and the impact he made during his time in public service. His legacy is one of hope and resilience, serving as a reminder of the importance of dedicated leadership in advancing the agriculture sector and improving the livelihoods of many Fijians.
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