Upon learning of the passing of Filipe Bole, I was met with deep remorse. He was not only a man of great honour and integrity, but a man who I called both a true friend and trusted advisor.
Whether as a teacher, an ambassador, a parliamentarian, or a minister, Mr Bole demonstrated the epitome of a selfless civil servant, putting his love of country, and his service to Fiji, above all else. He represented Fiji in the very best light, both on the international stage and here at home.
And he –– much like Fiji as a nation –– experienced an immense evolution over time, coming to realise that the future of our nation depended on reforming the systemic racial politics that long plagued our nation. To put an end to that chapter of our history, he joined on to my government –– working hand-in-hand with us as an outspoken advocate of universal suffrage, knowing that true harmony could only be achieved in a democracy in which one person equaled one vote. For this, he was an inspiration to both me personally, and many thousands of Fijians throughout the country.
For his advocacy, his leadership, his friendship, and his service, I thank Mr Bole. My prayers are with his family, and may they be comforted by the fact that his profound legacy will live on forever in Fiji.