Dr. Jiko Luveni was a true Fijian patriot - Bainimarama

As we welcome our Christmas celebrations, we do so with tremendous sadness, as we mourn the passing of a true Fijian patriot, Dr. Jiko Luveni.

This was highlighted by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama in his Christmas message to the people of Fiji.

He says that in his time with Dr. Luveni, he knew her as a Fijian who held a deep and unshakable love for her country and her people adding that he admired her as a woman of exemplary character, steady wisdom and effortless grace.

Bainimarama also expressed his appreciation for Dr Luveni as she was a constant source of inspiration for countless Fijian women and girls across the country and above all else, he counted her as a dear friend, and she will be deeply missed.

The Prime Minister while paying tribute to the late Speaker of Parliament in his Christmas message also highlighted that through her service, she led Fiji all through the most important years of Fiji’s budding parliamentary democracy and that Dr Luveni remained always as a reasoned and impartial voice of understanding; a guiding light that illuminated truth amidst even the most heated of political debates.

Bainimarama in his message has asked that the life and legacy of Dr Luveni be honoured by striving to love each other in the same manner that Christ loves us all.

He says that people love their families, friends, neighbours, countrymen and women, and demonstrates that love with action.

The Prime Minister adds that people give their time and charity to spread love to those who need it most, especially those who are most vulnerable in our society.

Bainimarama has also asked that all Fijians join him and his family in prayer for Dr Luveni's family during this incredibly difficult time.

Bainimarama has also wished a very happy Christmas to those Fijian troops who are returning home from their tour of duty in Lebanon and the Golan Heights to spend the holiday here with their loved ones in Fiji as these troops can ask for no better gift.

He offered his greatest gratitude to those spending Christmas away from home in the service of their nation, as volunteers, police or as UN Peacekeepers adding that no matter how far from Fiji, they are in the thoughts and prayers of all Fijians.