SODELPA’s fundraising dinner at Novotel Suva Lami Bay last night is expected to raise over $80,000.

Party leader Sitiveni Rabuka said this was a first in a series of fundraisers to pay for the party office and its 2018 General Election campaign.

He said more than 400 party supporters attended. A ticket cost $200. While official figures were not released last night, the party was expected to collect more than $80,000 gross.

There were no surprises among those who attended which included former Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase and wife, Leba.

Opposition leader Ro Teimumu Kepa was absent. She was attending the funeral of a Valelevu clan member, Ro Nunia Logavatu Latianara on Serua island, Serua.

Mr Rabuka, said the theme of the dinner was “Supreme Sacrifice” as March 18 was internationally acclaimed as the Supreme Sacrifice Day in remembrance of those who had sacrificed for the sake of the betterment of the world: country leaders, political leaders, family leaders, armed forces, emergency service personnel etc.

“Supreme Sacrifice Day honours those who have made sacrifices for the sake and the good of others as well as those who sacrifice their lives every day for us,” Mr Rabuka said.

“We may most readily call to mind the men and women in uniform who have laid down their lives protecting their country and communities.

“This day also honours those who may have stepped forward during times of crisis to rescue a stranger or a neighbour and gave the supreme sacrifice that day.

“These sacrifices don’t always come in uniform and are often unsung,” Mr Rabuka said.

He said the fundraiser was attended by various working groups, party committees and individuals.

“Some families have purchased tables in memory of their loved ones who have passed on and who have made the “supreme sacrifice” which is the theme of the dinner.

“Members of SODELPA branches from all over Fiji and across the world have also purchased tickets.

“The party’s fundraising committee have a calendar of events and this is only the first of more to come,” Mr Rabuka said.

He said all political parties were reliant on donations and fundraising given the strict rules in the political parties decree.

“This event is only the first of many to help the party prepare for 2018.

“Fundraising and donations help keep the party office open and providing services to members, as well as to service our committees planning the 2018 campaign, which will involve teams going out into the community, to every part of Fiji,” Mr Rabuka said.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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