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The Speaker of Parliament and Turaga Na Tui Cakau Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has agreed to repatriate the remains of the late Corporal Sefanaia Sukanaivalu.
At a traditional ceremony held at Parliament House, Ratu Naiqama gave his assent and blessed the start of the repatriation process.
Ratu Naiqama said it was not a simple ceremony as it held great significance considering the self-sacrifice of Corporal Sukanaivalu VC and the procedures that the Fijian and Papua New Guinea governments would undertake to repatriate his remains.
A government delegation led by Prime Minister Sitiweni Rabuka requested Ratu Naiqama, in his capacity as Tui Kakau, to allow them to proceed with the repatriation process.
Rabuka said he had been considering the process for some time and also the relationship between Fiji and Papua New Guinea as the late Corporal Sukanaivalu was currently buried in Rabaul.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Lesi Korovavala, also briefed Ratu Naiqama on the steps they have taken so far and have been in touch with the relevant governments to complete the process.
Corporal Sukanaivalu VC is the only Fijian soldier to be awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award given to Commonwealth forces for bravery in the face of the enemy.
Corporal Sukanaivalu VC was from Yacata, Cakaudrove and enlisted in 1942 through “Vanua”.
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