The Speaker of Parliament and the Turaga Na Tui Cakau Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has provided his approval for the repatriation of the body of the late Corporal Sefanaia Sukanaivalu. The consent was given during a traditional ceremony at the Parliament Precinct, signaling the commencement of the repatriation process.
Acknowledging the importance of this development, Ratu Naiqama mentioned the immense significance of this event due to the bravery and self-sacrifice of Corporal Sukanaivalu. It’s a complex process that involves cooperation between the Governments of Fiji and Papua New Guinea to bring his remains home.
Appealing to Ratu Naiqama in his capacity as the Tui Cakau, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka led the Government delegation and sought his approval for proceeding with the process. Mr. Rabuka admitted having contemplated this process for a while, given the existing relationship between Fiji and PNG, as Corporal Sukanaivalu is currently interred in Rabaul.
Dr. Lesi Korovavala, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, briefed Ratu Naiqama on the progress made so far while stating that both governments have been collaborating to complete the process.
Corporal Sukanaivalu is the only Fijian soldier who has been honored with the Victoria Cross – the utmost prestigious gallantry award a Commonwealth soldier can receive from battling the enemy. Corporal Sukanaivalu, who hailed from Yacata in Cakaudrove, joined the ‘Vanua’ in 1942.