The Speaker of Parliament and Turaga Na Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, has approved the repatriation of the late Corporal Sefanaia Sukanaivalu’s body. This declaration took place in a traditional ceremony at the Parliament Precinct.
Ratu Naiqama highlighted the significance of the ceremony and the tremendous self-sacrifice made by Corporal Sukanaivalu VC. He discussed the joint efforts of the Fiji and Papua New Guinea Governments to repatriate the late soldier’s remains.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, leading the Government delegation, sought Ratu Naiqama’s permission, in his role as the Tui Cakau, for them to proceed with the repatriation. Rabuka admitted that he has contemplated this process for a while, considering the relationship between Fiji and Papua New Guinea, as Corporal Sukanaivalu is interred in Rabaul.
Dr Lesi Korovavala, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, updated Ratu Naiqama about the progress made and the communication between the respective governments to finalize the procedure.
Corporal Sukanaivalu VC, from Yacata in Cakaudrove, was the only Fijian soldier to receive the Victoria Cross. This prestigious award, the highest honor for bravery in combating the enemy, is bestowed upon Commonwealth Forces. He was enlisted in 1942 through the ‘Vanua’.