Tui Macuata, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was sworn in as the President of Fiji in an official ceremony at the State House on Friday.

Ratu Wiliame has become the sixth Head of State since Fiji became a republic in 1987.

He was sworn into office by Chief Justice Kamal Kumar before invited guests who were the diplomatic heads of mission and notable public figures.

Background

Ratu Wiliame was born in Suva and studied at Draiba Primary School before attending Bua College.

He served as a soldier and made two tours to the Middle East. He was commissioned to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and appointed the commanding officer of the 7th Infantry Regiment of the Territorial Forces.

Ratu Wiliame is said to be one of Fiji’s fiercest defenders of the ocean and at the forefront of Fiji’s fight against climate change.

He passionately champions the protection of ocean ecosystems, promotes healthy reefs, mangroves, wetlands, marine eco-life and the safe guarding of water sources and forest.

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