Prince Charles Park in Nadi, which is slated to be renamed as King Charles Park, was originally called AD Patel Stadium. This was brought to light by Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya during a parliamentary debate on the Nadi Town Council’s annual report on Monday.
Koya remarked, “One thing that seems to be forgotten — and I hope I am not mistaken — is that the actual stadium was named AD Patel Stadium. In my travels around Nadi, I have not seen this name; it appears to have been removed.”
He expressed concern about the implications of omitting the name, stating, “It would not be right to remove the name without reinstating it. This name represents a person who was instrumental in our history and has significantly contributed to our country. It deserves to remain on that stadium.”
Koya urged for the name to be restored, emphasizing the historical significance of AD Patel: “He is a crucial figure in Fiji’s history.”
Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa acknowledged the necessity of renaming the park to King Charles Park due to the changes in the monarchy. He mentioned that the council has contacted the British High Commission to seek confirmation regarding the protocol for the name change.