Ratu Sukuna

Ratu Sir Josefa Lalabalavu Vanayaliyali Sukuna was a remarkable leader, soldier, and statesman who left a lasting impact on Fiji. As the most distinguished indigenous Fijian of his generation, he dedicated nearly five decades of his life to public service, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire young leaders today. This year's theme is "visionary leadership," and there is much that young leaders can learn from Ratu Sukuna's example. In this article, we will explore his life and work, drawing out two significant lessons that are particularly relevant for young leaders today.

Ratu Sukuna was raised with the traditions and customs of a chiefly household on Bau Island. He received an excellent education for his time. During the First World War, he served in France and was honored for his bravery by the French Foreign Legion. His prior work in the civil service equipped him for his role in the Native Lands Commission, where he dealt with the delicate matter of land ownership and titles, a subject critical to indigenous Fijians.

During World War II, Ratu Sukuna enlisted Fijian volunteers to fight for the Crown. For him, active service was a rite of passage that marked the Fijians as ready to take charge of their destiny. He also took measures to protect indigenous land, customs, and traditions. In meetings of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga and casual conversations, he convinced the chiefs to relinquish control of their land to a statutory body created by the colonial government.

Ratu Sukuna had a vision of Indo-Fijians having access to land and secure tenure. To achieve this, he proposed engaging the three ethnic communities in a partnership for the development of the colony. The Native Land Trust Act of 1940 was based on this proposal. A statutory body was created to hold native land in trust for landowners. Ratu Sukuna's patience, persuasiveness, and leadership were crucial in achieving this "monumental act of faith."

Ratu Sukuna's life teaches two important lessons for young leaders. Firstly, trust is essential for leadership, and a leader's character, competence, and credibility form trust. The people trusted Ratu Sukuna when he created the Native Land Trust Board, now known as the iTaukei Land Trust Board. Secondly, Ratu Sukuna's extensive knowledge of Fiji's customs and practices came from walking the country. A leader must persevere and fulfill their historical responsibility.

This article pays tribute to Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna and his lasting impact on leadership. We can learn valuable lessons from his visionary leadership and legacy. Trust and diligence were key qualities of his leadership style. Young leaders can benefit from following in his footsteps.

Sources:

Dr John C. Maxwell, The 21 Most Powerful Minutes in a Leader’s Day, 2000, Thomas Nelson, p. 83-85

Dr Myles Munroe, The Principles and Power of Vision, 2003, Whitaker House, p. 193

Quanchi, Max. “World War I, Fiji and Ratu Sukuna: an exhibition.” The Journal of Pacific History 51 (2016): 55 - 56.

Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi, “Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna – Fijian Leader, Soldier, Statesman” in 20th Century Fiji – People Who Shaped the Nation, Professor Stewart Firth & Daryl Tarte eds., 2001, USP Solutions, Fiji

Ratuva, Steven. “Man versus Myth: The Life and Times of Ratu Sukuna.” Understanding Oceania: Celebrating the University of the South Pacific and its collaboration with The Australian National University (2019): n. pag.

Sorrenson, M. P. K.. “Ratu Sukuna: Soldier, Statesman, Man of two worlds by Deryck Scarr, and: Fiji: The Three-Legged Stool. Selected Writings of Ratu Sir Lata Sukuna ed. by Deryck Scarr (review).” New Zealand Journal of History 19 (2022): 193 - 194.

Wayne W. Dyer, “Henry Wadsworth Longfellow – Enthusiasm” in Wisdom of the Ages, 1998, HarperCollins