PMIs Person of the year
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama is Person of the Year.
He gets the highest award in the Fiji Sun’s
Top 10 Fijians for 2018.
The awards are for their exemplary service and contribution to nation building. There is no contest for the top award. Mr Bainimarama deserves it for his unwavering and decisive leadership on the domestic front and international stage. He has achieved more than any other Prime Minister since Fiji became independent in 1970.
His FijiFirst Government has rolled out
more people-oriented initiatives than any other previous government.
He has become the voice of reason and a leader people can look to for security, peace and stability in the face of the divisive politics of race and religion adopted by some Opposition politicians. He has constantly spoken about the importance of national unity and its implications on economic development and progress. He also backs a merit-based system and the elimination of corruption and nepotism. He continues to take keen interest in the welfare of ordinary Fijians who are vulnerable - the sick, the disabled, the poor and the elderly.
He has a soft spot for the children and women of this country. This is reflected in the health, education and social welfare policies introduced in the 2018-2019 National Budget.
On the international stage, Mr Bainimarama has done more than any of his predecessors.
His ability to be able to engage with world political leaders, business leaders, civil societies and even celebrities has been recognised.
His presidency of COP23 and co-leadership in the World Ocean Conference have been the highlight of his international achievements in 2018. Mr Bainimarama has raised Fiji’s international profile through his powerful, frank and open statements on climate change, the oceans, our environment and United Nations peacekeeping missions.
Despite its small size, Fiji is punching well above its weight in these international forums. Mr Bainimarama has led the charge. He is not afraid to mix it with the big boys, so to speak.
His political courage has earned him respect among his peers.