Fiji Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama Pays Tribute to Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare

“The Grand Chief was a true friend of Fiji. He stood by Fiji as we faced our own set of challenges, urging the international and regional communities to trust the judgment and respect our decisions. This is something we will never forget.”

This was the statement by Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama while delivering his eulogy at the Memorial Service held to honour the late Right Honourable Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare held at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Suva today.

Prime Minister Bainimarama acknowledged Sir Michael for being a great friend to Fiji and said that he had a special friendship with Fiji's first Prime Minister, the late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara and the other great Statesmen of the region as they shared the experience of leading their nations to independence.

“Both men believed that people of the Pacific should be masters of their destiny. They had a genuine friendship, and they truly shared a common vision for the prosperity of their countries and the Pacific region."

“The founding of the South Pacific Forum, now known as the Pacific Islands Forum, in 1971 is one tangible legacy of that vision for collective action on issues that are important to our region. This year marks the PIF’s 50th Anniversary, and it is a living and active institution that solves problems and makes the Pacific a stronger, safer and more prosperous part of the world."

"This reflects the true genius and the true heart of Sir Michael, that his ideas were always directed to do good, to build trust, to help people, and to bring people together. We honour that legacy through solidarity among Pacific nations."

The head of Government added that the new generation of Pacific Leaders must now deal with the life-threatening challenges of climate change and the increased frequency of natural disasters, global health and socio-economic crises.

In remembering the late Grand Chief's life, PM Bainimarama said that every day, people of the Pacific reap the blessings of his life’s work, the influence that he wielded and used for a greater good, the friendships that he established and maintained, and the words of wisdom that he gave.

The memorial service was attended by the Speaker of Parliament Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, Cabinet Ministers, members of the diplomatic corps and members of the PNG community living in Fiji.

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