Upon his passing Ratu Sukuna had nothing more to his name but 50 cents which was concluded that in a sense, he gave everything he had to his nation and investing in the education of his successors. Long after his death, they continued to regard him as their mentor and saw the implementation of his vision as their sacred responsibility. Even today, now that the torch has been passed to a younger generation, most Fijian politicians, even from the Indo-Fijian community, regard themselves as heirs of his legacy.
Ratu Sukuna’s 1936 speeches to the Great Council of Chiefs
- ”(on the Indian presence in Fiji): "Let us not ignore the fact that there is another community settled here in our midst. I refer to the Indians. They have increased more rapidly than we. They have become producers on our soil. They are continuously striving to better themselves. Although they are a different race, yet we are each a unit in the British Empire. They have shouldered many burdens that have helped Fiji onward. We have derived much money from them by way of rents. A large proportion of our prosperity is derived from their labour."
- (on the perceived need for cautious political development): "We are the High Chiefs of these islands. We are the leaders of the people. On us is the duty of pointing out to them the right course. Bear this in mind. We have to lead on two points- hold back those who advocate radical changes (for which we are not sufficiently educated) and enliven the laggards before their ignorance destroys us".
Ratu Sukuna has already realized the importance and the Dignity of the Indian people and the great contributions they have done in Fiji’s development and the need for them to have land permanently as Fiji is now their Home. He founded the Native Lands Trust Board(NLTB) so that the needs of development and other races can be addressed while at the same time protect the Indigenous people and their future. He was a Chief, Scholar, Soldier, Sportsman, Lawyer, a knight, and a statesman but most of all he was a Man for all people.
Resurrection of the Council of Chiefs after 16 years. 22nd to 26th May.
This year has been already an extra ordinary year if we relate the above major events to Laudato Si for we already could breathe fresh air of change and goodwill among our people. It has just started and will be a difficult long road but it is definitely true that a “Better Future is in our hands.” s Vinaka Vakalevu…
Te – JPIC FIJI.
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