Parliamentary Speaker and Turaga Na Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, has authorized the repatriation of the late Corporal Sefanaia Sukanaivalu’s body. Ratu Naiqama granted his approval during a traditional ceremony at the Parliament Precinct, signaling the start of the repatriation process.
Ratu Naiqama noted the ceremony’s significant implications, given the huge personal sacrifice made by Corporal Sukanaivalu VC. He underlined the efforts of the Fijian and Papua New Guinea governments to bring the corporal’s remains back home.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, leading the government delegation, approached Ratu Naiqama for approval to proceed with the repatriation process. Rabuka revealed this had been on his mind for quite some time and reflected on the relationship between Fiji and Papua New Guinea, as the late Corporal Sukanaivalu is currently interred in Rabaul.
Dr Lesi Korovavala, the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, briefed Ratu Naiqama on progress made and how the two governments are coordinating to finalize the process.
Remarkably, Corporal Sukanaivalu VC, a native of Yacata in Cakaudrove, is the sole Fijian soldier to receive the Victoria Cross – the most prestigious award for valor in the face of an enemy given to Commonwealth Forces. His military service began in 1942 when he joined through the ‘Vanua.’