It was a proud moment for retired soldier Konisi Ratumaiwai to be part of Fiji Day celebrations in Suva yesterday.

The 72-year-old wore his medals which he received while he was in the military.

Mr Ratumaiwai is retired and now resides with his family in Nabua Village in Suva.

“Fiji gained independence in 1970 and since then there have been many developments taking place in Fiji. It is good to see that Fiji is moving forward with time,” he said.

Prakash Narayan, a diabetic, did not allow his condition to stop him from being part of celebrations at  Albert Park Pavilion and Grounds.

“For the last 46 years I have been part of Fiji Day Celebrations.

“I have been surviving on tablets for the last three years but I came to witness Fiji Day Celebrations,” he said.

The Speaker of Parliament, Dr Jiko Luveni, who opened the celebrations, urged all Fijians to move forward in unity.

“Fiji has come a long way. We are now celebrating Fiji’s 46th year as an independence nation.

“This is remarkable achievement in itself and one that should be celebrated extensively,” she said.

The theme for Fiji Day Celebration is ‘Moving All Fijian Forward in Unity’.

“It illustrates Government’s focus on inclusivity in all its development efforts and national life.

SODELPA Leader Sitiveni Rabuka and National Federation Party Leader Biman Prasad were happy to attend the Suva celebrations.

Mr Rabuka said: “I remember the time when Fiji first celebrated its independence day.

“I was away playing rugby for Fiji in England.

“Since then, I try to part to be present at every Fiji Day celebration,” he said.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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