5 Jan 2005

CCF says Adi Kuini Speed could have been first woman PM in Fiji

4:20 pm on 5 January 2005

Fiji's Citizens Constitutional Forum says the late Adi Kuini Speed, a former Deputy Prime Minister, could have become Fiji's first woman Prime Minister.

The traditional process of informing people of her passing away is continuing after her death from cancer last Friday.

The CCF Executive Director, Reverend Akuila Yabaki, has paid tribute to Adi Kuini, who held the title of Taukei Koroi-Vabekwa, in the district of Noikoro in Navosa, at the time of her passing.

Reverend Yabaki says the Navosa high chief was faithful to the legacy left by her late husband and former Prime Minister, Dr Timoci Bavadra.

"She'd could have become Fiji's first woman prime minister. She's a recognized leader. She's a traditional leader in her own right, she's actually of chiefly stock. But she was able to move with the time, and be able to read politically how the chiefly priviledges can be slotted into issues of human rights, the way a modern leader in Fiji should be so equipped."

Reverend Yabaki says she was a courageous woman who worked for peace, despite her long illness.

Fiji Live reports there will be a family gathering at her Colo-i-Suva home this Friday, before she is laid to rest, at Korolevu.