Two political parties have sent their condolence messages to the British Monarch following the death of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh on April 9.

The National Federation Party leader Biman Prasad said the death of the Duke of Edinburgh was the end of an historic era.

Mr Prasad said the Duke of Edinburgh was regarded with the same respect and admiration as Queen Elizabeth II by the people of Fiji.

He said despite Fiji severing its links with the Crown and the Queen as the nation’s Head of State when the country became a Republic in October 1987, the people of Fiji still revered the Monarchy.

The NFP leader said several teenagers who are high school students and youth in Fiji have improved their leadership qualities by benefiting from the Duke of Edinburgh Awards established by Prince Philip 65 years ago.

Mr Prasad said many in Fiji will have fond memories of the last official visit to Fiji in 1982 by the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh.

Fiji Labour Party

In a statement from Fiji Labour Party, it said:

In the past 69 years, ever since Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne of Great Britain, the Duke has served as an exemplary royal consort, quietly supporting the Queen in her many duties, accompanying her on State visits,  without ever appearing to be publicly intrusive or dominating.

He carried out his royal duties with dignity and commitment until recent years when failing health forced him to retire from public life.

The Duke was a notable sportsman in his own right, was well known for his quick and sharp wit and a forthright manner  of  speaking.

Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry said: “We offer our deepest condolences to Her Majesty the Queen, the royal family and to the people of Britain.”

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