Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka paid tribute to his former national rugby team-mate, Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese, who recently passed away.
“We mourn the loss of a great Fijian rugby legend, Ilaitia Tuisese,” he stated. Rabuka reminisced about their time together as they played as prop forwards during the national team’s tour of England and Wales in 1970, which was part of the centennial celebrations of the English Rugby Football Union.
He reflected on the significance of October 10, 1970, when they prepared to face the British Combined Services. Rabuka recalled the first time he heard their national anthem, “Meda dau doka,” as the band played it before the match. At first, he and his teammates were preoccupied with their gear until they noticed fellow players standing at attention. They quickly joined in, honoring the flag being raised, which was the new Fijian flag.
Rabuka noted that the officiating referee for that match was Air Commodore Lamb, who had recently conducted a Cold War mission, making the experience even more memorable.
He praised Tuisese for his strength, leadership, and commitment on the field, emphasizing that he was not just a teammate but a true friend. Rabuka cherished the victories they shared, including a notable win against Oxford University, and highlighted Tuisese’s significant impact on Fijian rugby.
“Ilaitia’s contributions to the sport go beyond the game, and his legacy will always be remembered. Today, we honor a legend and a man whose absence will be profoundly felt,” Rabuka concluded.
“Rest in peace, Ilaitia Tuisese. Your legacy will continue in the hearts of those who knew you and in the annals of Fijian rugby.”