The Fiji rugby community mourns the loss of a significant figure, Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese (Snr), a former national captain, head coach, and administrator. Ratu Ilaitia passed away at his home in Nausori last Saturday at the age of 77, following a brief illness, as confirmed by his family.
Ratu Ilaitia was renowned for his multifaceted contributions—not only did he excel in rugby and its governance, but he also played a vital role in national development. He served as the Minister of Regional Development and Multi-Ethnic Affairs during the interim government in 2000, and later took on the role of Minister for Agriculture, Sugar, and Land Resettlement after the 2001 general elections.
A Hall of Famer with the Fiji Rugby Union, Ratu Ilaitia was instrumental in pioneering sevens rugby in Fiji. He captained the Fiji 7s team as a player at the 1977 Hong Kong 7s tournament, leading them to their first victory. He returned as the team’s coach in 1980, guiding them to another win in the Cup final.
Former teammate Pio Bosco Tikoisuva praised Ratu Ilaitia as a gentleman both on and off the field. The two played together in the Fiji team that triumphed over the British Lions 25-21 in Suva in 1977 and were inducted as FRU Life Members in April 2019.
“He was an expert at lineouts and exemplified good sportsmanship,” Tikoisuva recalled. “We’ve lost a respected and humble man. He was among the great players of our era.”
Ratu Ilaitia made his international debut in rugby union on June 25, 1969, in a match where Fiji faced a loss.
Sale Sorovaki, the general manager of operations and development at the FRU, expressed his sorrow, stating, “We’ve just lost a Flying Fijian legend.” He noted Ratu Ilaitia’s invaluable advice and insights on improving the sport.
Viliame Takayawa, secretary of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA), emphasized Ratu Ilaitia’s support for the party and his contributions to the Laisenia Qarase government, particularly regarding land management and development for indigenous communities.
At the time of his passing, Ratu Ilaitia served as the chairman of the Fiji SUN board. He is survived by his wife, Adi Sokoveti Raditora Tuisese, along with his children and grandchildren. Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.