Mahendra Chaudhry, Leader of the Fiji Labour Party and former Prime Minister, has expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of Dr Tupeni Baba. Reflecting on the tumultuous events of 2000, Chaudhry described Dr Baba as a constant source of strength and comfort for his colleagues.
Chaudhry reminisced about Dr Baba’s role as Deputy Prime Minister, noting that he maintained communication through notes, offering his perspectives and advice on critical issues. Dr Baba, a founding member of the Fiji Labour Party, served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs in the Labour-led Government of 1999.
Additionally, Dr Baba was Labour’s Minister for Education, Youth and Sports in the Bavadra Government of 1987, which was toppled after just a month in Fiji’s first coup, orchestrated by Sitiveni Rabuka. Dr Baba later formed the New United Labour Party to contest the 2001 general election after breaking away from the Fiji Labour Party.
Dr Baba experienced significant personal threats during both the 1987 and 2000 coups. On May 14, 1987, he was taken captive by Lt. Col. Rabuka and kept under house arrest for six days along with Dr Bavadra and other cabinet members. In the 2000 coup, he was held hostage at gunpoint for 56 days along with Prime Minister Chaudhry and other ministers.
Chaudhry praised Dr Baba’s bravery, stating, “In both coups, Dr Baba showed exemplary courage and fortitude, refusing to give in to intimidation by gun-toting soldiers.” Despite being separated and held in different locations during the 2000 hostage crisis, Dr Baba managed to stay in touch with Chaudhry about ongoing developments.
Remembering Dr Baba’s contributions, Chaudhry highlighted his affable nature, strong advocacy for social justice, and significant impact during Labour’s early years. Dr Baba did not contest the 1992 and 1994 general elections under the racist 1990 Constitution.
Extending his condolences, Chaudhry said, “On behalf of the Fiji Labour Party, I extend our sincere condolences to his wife Dr Unaisi Nabobo-Baba and other family members.”