Fijians encouraged to fly Fiji flag to mark 45 years of Independence

All Fijians are encouraged to fly the Fiji flag with pride to mark 45 years of Fiji’s Independence.

Permanent Secretary for Defence, National Security and Immigration Osea Cawaru says this year’s celebration is special because we will be witnessing Ratu Epeli Nailatikau officiating in this event for the last time as President.

He says government had set aside $100,000 to cater for this year’s Fiji Day Celebrations.

Suva is the main centre of celebration and it will be held at the Buckhurst and Bidesi grounds.

It will be a full day program.

This morning there will be a march by government agencies, business houses and students from 11 schools.

The march procession will begin from Vatuwaqa Primary School through the Laucala Bay Road to Bidesi and Buckhurst grounds at 9am.

The Speaker of Parliament, Dr Jiko Luveni will be the chief guest at this morning’s celebration starting at 9.45am while the Outgoing President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau will be the chief guest at 2pm.

There will be a Presidential Salute, review of the Parade by Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, a march pass and the 21 gun salute. For the first time ever, there will be a detachment of 66 female soldiers from the RFMF that will be part of the Fiji Day parade.

Fiji Day celebrations will also be held in Lautoka and Labasa today while the celebration in Levuka will be held tomorrow.