Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has advised cabinet ministers to avoid wearing kalavata, speaking at the Fiji Sports Awards at Vodafone Arena in Suva on Saturday night. He emphasized the importance of being mindful of those who are less fortunate in society, especially given the challenges presented by an evolving world.
Mr. Rabuka expressed regret for not wearing the kalavata that was sent to him for the event. He noted that he has been encouraging ministers to refrain from kalavata, as not everyone is able to afford new clothing throughout the year.
He mentioned that the shirt he wore that evening was the sixth kalavata he had received, stating that during the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat meetings in Tonga, a special shirt was provided each day. However, he highlighted that there are many on the streets who do not enjoy the same privileges and stressed the need to be aware of their daily struggles.