Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka today extended his sincere apologies for the delay in his return to convey his profound gratitude to the Yavusa Sauduna of Dogoru Village, Macuata.
This gratitude was in response to a gracious request he had submitted to the Vanua subsequent to his opening of the Vunikawakawa Bridge in Wailevu earlier this year.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the significance of their traditional ties and the acceptance of his request to perform the traditional Meke performed at the bridge opening at the Great Council of Chief meeting in Bau in May.
This was the reason for the PM's current visit – a sense of indebtedness to them for their dedication.
The PM extended his appreciation for their understanding and for upholding their traditional affiliations with Cakaudrove.
"I am pleased to be here, which was scheduled subsequent to the opening of the Macuata Provincial Council Meeting in Labasa this morning," said PM Rabuka.
“However, I acknowledged the demands on my time as Prime Minister and do apologise for the delay in coming here to formally thank you for the task you carried out on Bau Island.”
“The performance itself served as a symbol of our strong bond. The historical value of the GCC performance in Bau will be etched in memory, particularly within the Vanua Sauduna.”
Expressing gratitude, he said the Turaga na Tui Macuata His Excellency the President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere was proud of their accomplishments.
The new financial year had commenced," adds PM Rabuka.
"We have increased the budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Education and Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and the government has also reserved allocations for roads and jetties upgrades in Vanua Levu.”
While advocating for patience, he recognised the government's constraints while assuring the impending arrival of development. Additionally, the PM encouraged those present to persevere in their familial and village responsibilities, stating, "Let us all continue to fulfill our duties with dedication."
The PM stressed the alignment of responsibilities with progress and personal growth and encouraged the cultivation of wisdom, passing it on to the younger generation. The emphasis on self-sufficiency in food production was coupled with a call to avoid VAT-incurring purchases, citing the link between healthy sustenance and well-being.
Vunikawakawa Villager Joeli Turagalevu, speaking on behalf of the Yavusa Sauduna shared that the Vanua took pride in their performance at the GCC.
“Stepping onto the chiefly island was a historical moment and we considered it as a learning experience to be passed down through generations,” he said.
The PM's dual visits within a year to the tikina were unprecedented, a testament to the honor they felt as they welcomed his traditional expression of gratitude concludes Mr. Turagalevu.