The funeral service brought together those who knew Singh in different chapters of his life, from his years as a teacher and trade union leader to his time as a parliamentarian and Cabinet Minister.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, in delivering the Government’s tribute, described Singh as a husband, father, uncle, colleague, Cabinet Minister, parliamentarian, teacher, trade unionist and friend.
Rabuka says Singh’s life was, in many respects, a story of service and that his experience as a teacher shaped the way he approached leadership and public service.
He shares Singh carried the values of listening, guiding and helping others throughout his career and never forgot where he came from or the concerns of ordinary working people.
Rabuka says Singh believed work was about more than earning a wage, stressing the importance of human dignity, safe working conditions and ensuring workers were heard.
He highlighted Singh’s role in helping resolve a longstanding workers’ dispute that had remained outstanding for more than three decades, with Government securing a $9.2 million settlement for affected workers and their families.
Rabuka also acknowledged Singh’s efforts to strengthen Fiji’s tripartite machinery and bring Government, employers and workers together to address employment issues.
He says Singh understood that the three parties would not always agree, but believed disagreements should never prevent dialogue.
National Federation Party Leader Professor Biman Prasad remembered Singh not only as a Minister and parliamentarian, but as a colleague and friend.
Professor Prasad says Singh’s commitment to working people began long before he entered politics recalling Singh’s 23 years as General Secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union and saying his concern for workers came from his experiences as a teacher and trade unionist.
He says Singh was a man with strong views and convictions, but was also known for his loyalty, humour and willingness to tell people exactly what he thought.
Professor Prasad also reflected on the personal loss for Singh’s family, remembering him as a husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle.
He says while official records would document Singh’s career and achievements, they would not capture the private conversations, jokes, advice and friendships that made up his life.
Rabuka remembers Agni Deo Singh for a lifetime of service to workers
His casket will depart for his family residence in Dilkusha, Waila, following which, he will be cremated at the Raralevu Cemetery this afternoon.
