Farewell, Ratu Sir Penaia

IT was funeral truly befitting a great leader as Fiji’s beloved President Ratu Sir Penaia Ganilau was laid to rest on January 1. After lying in state in Suva his body arrived for the final time at his family home at Somosomo on the island of Taveuni and was buried among ms ancestors.

As a high chief and great leader his death at Washington’s Walter Reed Army Hospital on December 16 plunged the nation into mourning, and the normal Christmas and New Year celebrations were very subdued.

Somosomo played host to nearly 6000 people from Fiji and abroad who gathered to bid their final farewell. His moving send off was a magnificent spectacle as the traditional ceremonies blended with the modern military rituals, An army veteran of the Malaya cam paign he eventually became Battalion Commander and was awarded the Dis tinguished Service order. He was appointed Governor General in February, 1983 and took over as President following the military coups of 1987 and Fiji subsequent transition to a republic. □

Asaeli Lave Traditional conch blowers: continued blowing until the late President was buried

Asaeli Lave Lady Bale Ganilau: Ratu Sir Penaia's widow says goodbye with red roses