Former RFMF Commander Paul Manueli laid to rest

Former Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Colonel Paul Manueli will be laid to rest this hour at the Old Suva Cemetery.

Colonel Manueli was the first local Commander of the RFMF during the period of February 1974 to February 1979. Colonel Manueli had also served as Minister for Home Affairs, Finance Minister, and Minister for Justice.

While giving his eulogy during the funeral service at Churchwood Chapel along Rewa Street, Colonel Manueli’s son Peter Manueli described his father as one who always encouraged them never to tell someone to do something if you cannot do it yourself.

He says that these were always his words of motivation which had moulded a lot of people that came across the late Colonel including his officers in the Army.

He adds that the late Colonel was someone who had a heart to unite people and that he was a true patriot.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, Speaker of Parliament Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, Opposition Leader Sitiveni Rabuka, Minister for Defence and Foreign Affairs Inia Seruiratu, Commander RFMF Viliame Naupoto and Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho, diplomats, friends and family members attended the service earlier today.

Family member, Fatiaki Misau said that the late Colonel Manueli was described by the RFMF as someone whose footprints has left a benchmark for RFMF Officers and his legacy is something that officers will strive hard to become custodians of.

Colonel Manueli passed away on the 23rd of last month.