The Fiji rugby community mourns the loss of a legendary figure, Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese (Snr), who served as a former national captain, head coach, and administrator. He passed away at the age of 77 at his home in Nausori after a brief illness, as confirmed by family members.
Ratu Ilaitia was a multifaceted individual; his contributions extended beyond rugby and its governance. He played a significant role in nation building, having served as the Minister for Regional Development and Multi-Ethnic Affairs in the interim government of 2000, and later as the Minister for Agriculture, Sugar, and Land Resettlement after the 2001 general elections.
Inducted into the FRU Hall of Fame, he was a pioneer of Fijian sevens rugby. Ratu Ilaitia captained the Fiji sevens team to victory in the 1977 Hong Kong Sevens, marking the nation’s first win in this prestigious tournament. He returned to the competition as a coach in 1980, leading the team to another Cup final victory.
Pio Bosco Tikoisuva, a former teammate, remembered Ratu Ilaitia as a true gentleman on and off the field. Both men played for the Fiji team that triumphed over the British Lions with a score of 25-21 in Suva in 1977 and were inducted as Life Members of the Fiji Rugby Union together in April 2019.
Tikoisuva praised Ratu Ilaitia’s expertise in lineouts and his exemplary sportsmanship, saying, “We’ve lost a respected and humble man. He was one of the great players during our time.” Ratu Ilaitia made his international debut in 15s rugby on June 25, 1969.
FRU general manager of operations and development, Sale Sorovaki, expressed his sorrow, stating, “We’ve just lost a Flying Fijian legend.” Meanwhile, Viliame Takayawa, the secretary of the Social Democratic Liberal Party, noted Ratu Ilaitia’s fervent support for the party and his crucial role in the Laisenia Qarase government, especially in advancing land management and development for indigenous peoples.
At the time of his passing, Ratu Ilaitia was the chairman of the Fiji SUN board. He leaves behind his wife, Adi Sokoveti Raditora Tuisese, children, and grandchildren. Funeral arrangements will be announced shortly.