Why I turned Down the Umbrella: PM

The Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, in a heartfelt post on social media, why he turned down an umbrella during the unforgiving rain at Somosomo, Taveuni, on Thursday.

''As some of you may have seen, there is a video circulating of me arriving at the Cakaudrove Provincial Council meeting in the village of Somosomo.

I wanted to take this opportunity to clarify the context of the video and what it truly meant.

''As a mark of respect to the Turaga Bale Na Tui Cakau Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, who is the paramount chief of the Cakaudrove Province and also the host of the meeting, I chose not to use an umbrella despite the heavy rain.

It is a cultural tradition to show reverence and honour to the chief, especially when in his own village.

"My security detail offered me an umbrella, but I respectfully declined, stating 'Sega, sa ti 'o a Turaga' which translates to 'the chief is already here'.

This was not only a gesture of respect, but also a symbol of unity and solidarity with the people of Cakaudrove.

"I wanted to share this with you all to shed some light on the cultural customs and traditions that are deeply rooted in our Fijian society.

It is important for us to preserve and uphold these traditions, as they are a significant part of our identity. "

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