Late Chief’s Warrior clan Hits out At Rabuka

The traditional warriors (bati-leka clan) of the late Tui Nayau and Tui Lau Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara have hit out at Sitiveni Rabuka’s claims.

Mr Rabuka, alleged in an interview with a former Fijian broadcaster, that the late Ratu Sir Kamisese knew about his May 1987 military coup.

He claimed Ratu Sir Kamisese supported his plans to overthrow the Dr Timoci Bavadra-led Fiji Labour Party-National Federation Party coalition government.

Sisaro Temo from the bati-leka clan of Yadrana Village in Lakeba, Lau said they were disappointed and saddened that Mr Rabuka used the late Tui Nayau’s name, when he had died almost 18 years ago.

Mr Temo is the clan leader based in Suva.

“I personally think, for him to use our chief’s name now and talk about his involvement is simply to gain political mileage,” Mr Temo said.

“It hurts us, because our paramount chief has been dragged into the gutter politics of Rabuka,” he said.

“Why did he not make such a revelation when Ratu Mara was alive, it is unjustified for him to try to make these claims now. This is treachery, liumuri.”

He said it was not only disrespectful but totally unacceptable and unbecoming of a political leader like Mr Rabuka to accuse a high chief of treason when he was not here to defend himself.

Mr Rabuka had insulted Ratu Sir Kamisese, his family, the Vanua, traditions and culture.

“Where is the respect? Especially when our chief has passed on.

“For us, we are insulted, making allegations using the name of our late chief is disrespectful. It is very disrespectful.”

He said it was their duty as a bati to protect and defend the Tui Nayau and his family

“What is he trying to achieve from doing this? Even until death he is still trying to drag his name down.”

Attempts to contact Mr Rabuka yesterday were unsuccessful. The Fiji Sun has been told that Mr Rabuka was in his village in Vanua Levu and would return on Thursday..