The 2024 Vodafone Ratu Suku-na Bowl competition extends beyond mere sports participation, according to Major General Jone Kalouniwai, the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces. He made this statement during the official launch event held 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 acknowledged a challenge posed by Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew, emphasizing the responsibilities of the respective forces and their roles in improving Fiji.
“It’s more than just winning or losing; it reflects the spirit shared among the forces, our identity, and what we can achieve for the future of our country,” Kalouniwai remarked. He noted that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) has been pursuing a path of reconciliation in recent months to carve out a new direction for the organization.
Furthermore, he highlighted the pressing issue of drug-related challenges faced by the Fiji Police Force, which are impacting communities. Kalouniwai expressed hope that, in the spirit of the Sukuna Bowl over the coming months, both forces would strive to uphold high moral standards while fulfilling their duties.
Chew, in his challenge to the RFMF, asserted that Nasova is the rightful home of the Ratu Sukuna Bowl. “The Fiji Police Force is ready and eager to defend the Ratu Sukuna tanoa,” he stated. He also pointed out that as professional police officers, there is a natural inclination to be cautious about potential strategies or power dynamics at play.
The police team retained the Ratu Sukuna Bowl last year after a draw of 11-11 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. “Given the increasing social issues our communities face, we advocate for saying no to drugs,” Chew added. He reiterated that since the new Ratu Sukuna tanoa was showcased in 2022, it has found its true home in Nasova and will return there this year.
Salman Khan, Vodafone Fiji’s chief commercial officer, remarked that Fiji is a nation deeply passionate about rugby. He highlighted that this event sees the nation’s disciplined forces competing not solely for victory, but for a trophy that symbolizes camaraderie, discipline, and spirited rivalry. “To the players, compete with integrity, passion, and pride for your team, remembering that you represent not only your own hopes but also the legacy of past champions and the aspirations of future generations,” Khan stated.
The Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge is tentatively scheduled for November 8 at the HFC Bank Stadium, with other sporting events set to commence during the same week.