Fiji marked 55 years of independence on 10 October with a colourful and spirited Friendly March through the streets of Suva, celebrating patriotism, unity, and national pride.
Led by civil servants and school students, the parade began at the Suva Flea Market and wound its way to Albert Park, where the main Fiji Day festivities were held.
The Fiji Police Force Band set the pace with lively tunes, while marchers dressed in shades of blue symbolising the nation’s pride and multicultural harmony.
This year’s theme, “Peace, Unity and Progress for All,” reflected the importance of coming together as one people, building on the resilience and strength that have defined Fiji since 1970.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka addressed the nation, saying independence is celebrated not just as a historic moment, but through the choices and values Fijians uphold every day. He urged unity across all communities, highlighting Fiji’s achievements in peace, development, and international engagement.
“Let us stand together—not as iTaukei or Indo-Fijians, not as urban or rural dwellers, not divided by faith—but as one people, under one flag, with one vision,” Prime Minister Rabuka said.
Rabuka paid tribute to Fiji’s founding fathers and communities, acknowledging contributions from iTaukei, Indo-Fijians, Rotumans, Chinese, Europeans, Pacific Islanders, and all who call Fiji home.
“True independence means living with dignity, no matter where in Fiji you live.”
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the nation’s focus on health, education, youth empowerment, rural development, climate action, economic growth, and strong international partnerships, calling on Fijians to embrace peace, unity, and progress for all.
For 18-year-old Sireli Sokiveta, a plumbing student at Pacific Polytech, Fiji Day is about more than celebrations—it’s about purpose. Sireli balances part-time work with his studies, supporting his family and planning for a brighter future. “This is how I celebrate my Fiji Day—by working hard, earning honestly, and supporting my parents,” he said, crediting government education initiatives for enabling his opportunities.
While others enjoy the festivities, Sireli finds celebration in purpose — working, saving for his studies, and planning for a brighter tomorrow.
“I encourage my fellow youths to get employed, support their families, and make the most of every opportunity. That’s the best Fiji Day we can have.”
For Riya Bhagwan, a journalism student at the University of the South Pacific, Fiji Day is a time to honour both the triumphs and unfinished work of independence. “Each Fiji Day, I am reminded of the courage and sacrifices made to make Fiji an independent state, free to make its own decisions and shape its own future,” Riya told The Australia Today.
“As part of the Indo-Fijian community, I am also reminded of the harsh realities that our ancestors faced under British colonial rule. We celebrate our independence as a time when we were liberated from these hardships and injustices.”
Riya said that while Fiji has made remarkable progress over the past 55 years, persistent issues such as gender-based violence continue to challenge the nation’s ideals. “Violence against women and children has persisted for over two decades, and even today, it continues to affect thousands of lives,” she said.
“Fiji Day is indeed a day of celebration, but it is also a call to action — a reminder that independence comes with responsibility, the responsibility to make a fairer and safer society.”
She urged her peers and leaders alike to use the day as a moment of renewal:
“This Independence Day, I urge everyone to make a promise — to view October 10th not just as a day of celebration, but as an important call to responsibility for the future of our nation.”
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