Bu Kini passes away at the age of 87

One of Fiji rugby’s most ardent supporters, Kinisimere Rabulugaga, fondly known as “Bu Kini”, has passed away at the age of 87.

Known for her loud cheers at most local rugby games in Fiji, Bu Kini, affectionately known to many, was not just an ardent fan of Fijian rugby; she was also a household name.

Messages of sympathy have started to flow in from people who grew up hearing the name “Bu Kini”, as well as some of the Ministers and also the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka himself.

In a post on his official social media page, Rabuka says he is saddened to learn of the untimely passing of one of Fiji’s beloved and ardent supporters of Fijian rugby.

Rabuka says Bu Kini’s love for the game, her voice echoing during matches, win or lose, and her strong support and belief in the potential of our players made her a well-known rugby fan.

He says Bu Kini never hesitated to cheer on our Fijian rugby side, on the local scene as well as internationally on the television screen.

He adds she was always proudly waving the noble banner blue.

Rabuka extends his deepest condolences to Bu Kini’s family, friends, and the vanua on behalf of the Government and the people of Fiji.

Member of Parliament, Lynda Tabuya, in a post, says before the Blue Wiggers, before the Fiji Dolls, there was Bu Kini, the original of Fiji rugby fans with her signature accessory, the Fiji Flag since the 1970s.

Tabuya says Bu Kini was never one to back down even when the chips were down, and she taught us to keep the Fiji patriotic spirit and to always support our team, win or lose.

She says she pays tribute to this champion of the human spirit who turns up when it really matters.

She adds that she honours her today since receiving the news of her passing at 87 years old, and she prays that we honour her legacy and be there for our warriors who fly the flag to the world in any sport, no matter what.