The Fiji Times

Fijians dazzle in blue to celebrate Fiji Day

- By VILIMAINA NAQELEVUKI

DECKED out in blue, schools and businesses across the country celebrated Fiji Day yesterday with much fanfare.

Cultural and entertainm­ent programs were organised at some schools where parents catered group lunches.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Sitiveni Rabuka said Fiji Day must be celebrated with enthusiasm and hope.

In a statement he also said Fiji Day must commemorat­e the sacrifices of those who fought bravely to bring freedom and prosperity to our nation.

“On independen­ce day 2019, I urge all of us to celebrate the ultimate sacrifice made by our forefather­s, former leaders from all walks of life and unsung heroes who fought to bring peace, freedom and progress for our nation,” he said.

“We must continue to embrace their sacrifices and what they believed is right, for our multiracia­l and multi-religious nation.

“We also celebrate the strength and indomitabl­e resilience of our people and as a nation in the face of the many challenges and adversity that we have experience­d since we became an independen­t nation.”

The Social Democratic Liberal Party leader said as a nation, Fiji’s citizens must work together through dialogue, understand­ing and respect for one another to realise the country’s collective dream for a vibrant and prosperous future.

“A nation is only strong if we are united and willing to work together for the good of all, rather than the interests of only a selected few.

“I urge all our citizens, as we celebrate the sacrifices of those men and women who fought bravely to bring peace, unity and freedom to our nation.”

 ?? Picture: RAMA ?? Students of Nasinu Muslim College in Nakasi during the World Teacher’s Day and Fiji Day celebratio­ns at their school.
Picture: RAMA Students of Nasinu Muslim College in Nakasi during the World Teacher’s Day and Fiji Day celebratio­ns at their school.
 ?? Picture: RAMA ?? Teachers of Nasinu Muslim College in their bula wear.
Picture: RAMA Teachers of Nasinu Muslim College in their bula wear.
 ?? Picture: RAMA ?? Students of Nasinu Muslim College in Nakasi during the World Teacher’s Day and Fiji Day celebratio­ns.
Picture: RAMA Students of Nasinu Muslim College in Nakasi during the World Teacher’s Day and Fiji Day celebratio­ns.
 ?? Picture: RAMA ?? Students of Holy Trinity Anglican School during the Fiji Day celebratio­n.
Picture: RAMA Students of Holy Trinity Anglican School during the Fiji Day celebratio­n.
 ?? Picture: RAMA ?? Year 402 Holy Trinity Anglican School students perform an item during the Fiji Day celebratio­n.
Picture: RAMA Year 402 Holy Trinity Anglican School students perform an item during the Fiji Day celebratio­n.
 ?? Picture: RAMA ?? Right: Daniel Toribau of Samabula Primary School leads the dance group during the Fiji Day celebratio­n.
Picture: RAMA Right: Daniel Toribau of Samabula Primary School leads the dance group during the Fiji Day celebratio­n.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Fiji