SODELPA Leader Sitiveni Rabuka who did not attend today’s Multi‑Faith National Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving to Commemorate the 1st Anniversary of Tropical Cyclone Winston, has questioned the government’s decision to hold the National Commemoration.
Rabuka has said in a statement that those in tents because of Cyclone Winston and the recent Tropical Depression continue to suffer during heavy rain and are waiting for government assistance.
Rabuka also says that it is not the custom in Fiji to hold a commemorative national service, and it is inappropriate while people still live in tents and children still have classes in tents.
The SODELPA Leader says unveiling a plaque for the 44 who lost their lives because of Cyclone Winston is also inappropriate because their families have already buried them and will hold their own private remembrance.
Rabuka says the funds spent on getting students and civil servants to attend the national commemoration would be better spent improving the lives and rehabilitating the homes and schools damaged by Cyclone Winston one year ago.
He says he remains concerned at the plight of families and students enduring in tents one year on since Winston.
Rabuka is again calling for an investigation and reprimand of companies, Ministers and officials at fault.
SODELPA is recommending the re‑establishment of the Prime Minister’s Cyclone Rehabilitation and Housing Department and the Government Supplies Department to coordinate, monitor and drive post‑cyclone rehabilitation.
