The 2024 Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl competition is about more than just sports participation. This sentiment was expressed by Major General Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, during the official launch at the Naval Base in Walu Bay, Suva, yesterday. The theme for this year’s Ratu Sukuna Bowl is “Stronger Together: Building a Drug Free Nation through Family, Unity and Reconciliation.”
Kalouniwai accepted a challenge from Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew, emphasizing the mutual responsibilities of the forces and their commitment to a better Fiji. He stated, “It is more than about winning or losing; it’s about the spirit that we all share in the forces, who we are, what we represent, and what we can achieve for the future of our country.”
Over the past few months, the RFMF has pursued a reconciliation path to forge a new future. Meanwhile, the Fiji Police Force is grappling with the drug crisis affecting communities. Kalouniwai hopes that the spirit of the Sukuna Bowl will inspire both forces to maintain a high moral standard in carrying out their duties.
Chew, while addressing the RFMF, declared Nasova to be the rightful home of the Ratu Sukuna Bowl. He remarked, “The Fiji Police Force is ready and looking forward to defend the Ratu Sukuna tanoa,” adding that police officers are trained to be watchful and question any underlying strategies.
Last year, the police retained the Ratu Sukuna Bowl after a draw of 11-11 at Prince Charles Park, Nadi. Chew reiterated the police’s stance against rising social issues, particularly drug use, stating their commitment to promote a drug-free community. He noted that since the new Ratu Sukuna tanoa was introduced in 2022, it has a permanent home in Nasova.
Vodafone Fiji’s chief commercial officer, Salman Khan, highlighted the nation’s passion for rugby and the spirit of competition among the disciplined forces, noting that the event represents camaraderie, discipline, and rivalry. He encouraged players to compete with integrity and pride, honoring the legacy of past champions and the dreams of future generations.
The Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge is tentatively scheduled for November 8 at the HFC Bank Stadium, alongside other sporting events that week.