Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Fiji’s founding father, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, to be buried on home island today

Posted at 19:14 on 02 May, 2004 UTC

Thousands of people have arrived on the island of Lakeba for the funeral today of Fiji’s founding father and former president, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara.

Ratu Mara, who died two weeks ago, will be buried in a specially constructed tomb in his home village of Tubou.

Ratu Mara’s casket has been lying in state at his home since its arrival on Saturday.

More than 500 troops are on the island to join traditional warriors as they escort Ratu Mara’s casket from his home to the traditional burial ground of Sau Tabu.