49 years of independence

IT’S that time of the year again when we celebrate the signing of the declaration of independence that proclaimed to the world our separation from Great Britain and our emergence as a new sovereign nation.

This year’s celebration is expected to be a special one for orphanages and senior citizens in homes around the country as government officials have this week been visiting them and giving out gifts.

Permanent secretary for Defence and National Security Manasa Lesuma says government remembers members of society around the country and this is something they are proud of.

“This is the time of the year when visitations are organised and residents and children presented with gifts — they may not be able to join us in the celebration centres but the spirit of Fiji Day is taken to their homes instead,” he said.

With the theme “A progressive and sustainable Fiji for all” Mr Lesuma says the theme

resonates well in the Fijian Constitution ens suring that all Fijians are equally involved and benefit in the development of the nation. This, he said, had paved the way forward for a modern and progressive Fiji!

To commemorate Fiji’s 49th year of inde pendence, he said, celebrations would be held around the country today (Thursday.)

He says the main celebration will be held at the Albert Park in Suva while the other cel ebration centres are in Labasa and Levuka.

“At the main celebration, the program begins

with the Fiji Day Parade by the members of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), Fiji Police Force and the Fiji Corrections Services.

Mr Lesuma said the parade would be reviewed by the president Jioji Konrote followed by entertainment and the display by the National Fire Authority and the Search and Rescue respondent agencies.

“The Western Division will be organising Fiji Day activities by visiting homes and orphanages in Nadi, Lautoka and Ba.”

Members of the public are encouraged to dress in our national colours and proudly wave their flags.

“We encourage Fijians wherever you are in the country and around the globe to be part of this year’s event.

“We also invite friends who have called Fiji — home and visitors to our shores to make this Fiji Day special by joining the celebration with us in the different divisions or even in your very own communities.”

Defence and National Security permanent secretary Manasa Lesuma, right, and Defence Ministry deputy secretary Ilai Moceica during the media launch of the 2019 Fiji Day celebrations.

By ATASA MOCEITUBA Picture: REINAL CHAND Children show patriotism during the Fiji Independence Day celebration at Prince Charles Park Nadi.

Picture: REINAL CHAND Emily Allen (2nd row left) and Michael Macartney of England join the Fijian people to celebrate Fiji’s Independence Day at Prince Charles Park Nadi.

Picture: JONA KONATACI Seini Cakacaka, Ranadi Cama, Katolina Nakita, Lanieta Tukitoga and Roselyn show their Fiji Day cakes and muffins at the Hot Bread Shop at Butt St.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Picture SERAFINA SILAITOGA Students of Lagalaga Primary School celebrate Fiji Day and Children’s Day.

Picture: JOVESA NAISUA Makitalena Naborisi and her siblings in their patriotic stride during the Fiji Day celebration in Navua.

Picture LUKE: RAWALAI Members of the public take to the rooftop of the Fiji Football Association lounge to get a glimpse of the parade among the crowd at Subrail Park.