Former Prime Minister, Army Commander and ex-Flying Fijians prop, Sitiveni Rabuka, believes the “purpose” behind the burnt Ratu Sukuna Bowl remains.

The esteemed 71-year-old, Ratu Sukuna Bowl was damaged during a fire at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ (RFMF) 3FIR building at Queen Elizabeth Barracks, Nabua, in December, last year.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, Rabuka said: “The trophy can be replaced, the idea behind the trophy stays.

“The idea of getting that was to enhance the co-operation between the Police and the Army in the maintenance of law and order.”

Rabuka added that the Ratu Sukuna Bowl was introduced during a difficult time in the country.

“The Ratu Sukuna Bowl is a very important trophy, it had a purpose,” he said.

“A purpose that was brought up by the late Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna, which was to enhance or strengthen the bond between the Police and the Army in the days after the Second World War.”

“At that time, there was unhealthy rivalry between the two forces in a sense that the Police were on the receiving end of the unreeling behaviour on the streets of Suva.”

“Most of those who were involved in the fracas at the time were soldiers.”

The tanoa, he said, was to create a common ground where differences could be settled between the two forces.

However, Rabuka said he had not received any information concerning the fire.

“I’ve not heard or seen any reports by the Fire Authority only then would it be fair to comment otherwise we would all be speculating,” he said.

A senior military officer admitted that the tanoa was inside the burning complex at the time of the fire.

“There is some protocol that needs to be followed before we can release any information,” the officer said.

“We haven’t done any traditional protocol yet. We will have to wait for Prime Minister (Voreqe) Bainimarama’s return before we can proceed.”

Feedback: simione.haravanua@fijisun.com.fj