Vinod Patel Cared About Fiji: Rabuka says
“I observed that Mr Patel was wise and intelligent. He was often restrained in his speeches during discussions in the Parliament Tanoa Tea Break Groups.
Monday 08 January 2024 | 13:41
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka with Vinod Patel (right), during an official engagement. Photo: DEPTFO News
The Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka paid tribute to the life and legacy of the late Vinod Patel.
Mr Patel founded and chaired one of Fiji’s biggest hardware and home improvement companies, Vinod Patel Group.
He died on Friday night at the Lautoka Aspen Hospital. He was 84 years old.
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Mr Patel is survived by his wife Manjulaben Prasad and three children Dakshesh, Kirtida, and Leena Patel.
In a heartfelt tribute, Mr Rabuka shared his acquittance with the Vinodbhai when in his first term as Prime Minister in the 1990s.
“He (Mr Patel) was a Parliamentary representative of the National Federation Party,” Mr Rabuka said.
“It was a momentous period that culminated in the enactment of the widely- applauded 1997 Constitution.
“I headed a Joint Parliamentary Select Committee (JPSC) studying constitutional recommendations of the Reeves Commission. Mr Patel was a member of the JPSC.
“Our Parliamentary mission was to search for new ways of political cooperation; and to address and resolve some of the complexities, the fears and divisions of our multi-ethnic society.
The late Vinod Patel, founder and chair of Vinod Patel Group.
“I observed that Mr Patel was wise and intelligent. He was often restrained in his speeches during discussions in the Parliament Tanoa Tea Break Groups.
But what he said was always of value.
“We shared what I describe as ‘compassionate’ patriotism. We cared very much about Fiji and knew things had to change if the country was to progress.
“I am sure Mr Patel will be surrounded by grace and compassion as he makes his way to the afterlife.
“Farewell Mr Patel and my condolences to his family.”
Vinod Patel Group
The company is a improvement retailer, hardware and building materials and is among the largest hardware companies in the South Pacific.
Vinod Patel Group has 14 branches and sales offices located in all major towns and cities:
Such is the impact and presence of the group that Vinod Patel has become a household name in Fiji
Other tributes
Many other prominent figures joined the chorus of tributes, including former Mayor of Ba and Opposition MP Parveen Bala.
“He lived in Ba and was always proud of Ba district. The passing away of a person of his stature and personality at this point in the history of Fiji is tragic and untimely,” said Mr Bala.
“He always provided leadership in various fields and will be long remembered for his selfless and dedicated service to Fiji.
“He represented the people of Ba in Parliament and raised the needs of Ba district in terms of infrastructure development in particular for a new hospital and clean and proper water supply and support for cane farmers.
He was an inspiration to many and will be sadly missed by people in all walks of life.”
Nadi businessman Bobby Khan recalled their last meeting at the Nadi International Airport on December 2.
“His presence brought joy and warmth to the lives of those around him, and his absence will be deeply felt. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers Mr Patel,” he said.
“I will always miss the chit-chat we. will always be missed by us all, Sir Ji.”
Kamlesh Sharma considered Mr Patel his best friend since 1971.
“He was a very humble and peaceloving person. The entire Indo-Fijian communities and the people of Fiji will miss him for a very long time,” he said.
Legacy in football
Mr Patel was dubbed the Father of Ba Football. He was a strong supporter of the Ba team having been the former president and Fiji team director.
He was part of the successful days of the ‘Men In Black’ from the 60’s when Ba took the local competition by storm. Interim Ba FC president Azam Ali said it was a huge loss for the Ba Football Association family.
“Patel’s legacy being an honorary member and existing board member of the club will forever be remembered,” Mr Ali said.
“His support and guidance have been invaluable to the success of Ba FA, and his presence will be deeply missed.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Ba FC community during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.
Last year, Mr Patel spearheaded the sponsorship of the Ba Tikina Rugby Championship in partnership with Rooster Poultry as the BRU returns to topflight competition this season for the first time since the 90s.
Funeral tomorrow
In a statement, the company confirmed that Mr Patel’s last rites will take place at the Varoka Cemetery in Ba at 2pm with the programme beginning 11am at Vinod Patel Park.
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