The 2024 Vodafone Ratu Suku-na Bowl competition is set to promote more than just sports participation. Major General Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, conveyed this message at the official launch held yesterday at the Naval Base in Walu Bay, Suva.
This year’s theme for the Ratu Sukuna Bowl is “Stronger Together: Building a Drug Free Nation through Family, Unity and Reconciliation.” Kalouniwai accepted the challenge posed by Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew, emphasizing the importance of the respective forces’ roles in contributing to a better Fiji.
He stated, “It is more than about winning or losing; it’s about the spirit we hold in the forces, who we are, what we represent, and what we can achieve for the future of this country.” He noted that the RFMF has been on a reconciliation path over the past months, aiming to move forward positively.
The Fiji Police Force, on the other hand, is grappling with the issue of drugs affecting communities. Kalouniwai expressed hope that the spirit of the Sukuna Bowl would inspire both forces to uphold high moral standards in carrying out their duties.
Chew, in challenging the RFMF, asserted that Nasova is the true home of the Ratu Sukuna Bowl, indicating that the Fiji Police Force is prepared to defend their title. He remarked, “As career police officers, we are trained to be suspicious of everyone and we cannot help but wonder what strategy or power play is at play here.”
The police retained the Ratu Sukuna Bowl last year after a draw, 11-11, at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. Chew added, “With the rising social issues faced by our communities today, we advocate to say no to drugs.” He emphasized that since the new Ratu Sukuna tanoa was unveiled in 2022, it belongs solely to Nasova and will return there this year.
Salman Khan, chief commercial officer of Vodafone Fiji, stated that Fiji is passionate about rugby, and this event sees disciplined forces competing not only for victory but also for a trophy that represents camaraderie, discipline, and spirited rivalry. He urged players to compete with integrity, passion, and pride for their teams, reminding them of the legacy of past champions and the aspirations of future generations.
The tentative date for the Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge is set for November 8 at HFC Bank Stadium, with additional sports events planned for the same week.