Ratu Sir Sukuna

Ratu Sir Josefa Lalabalavu Vanayaliyali Sukuna KCKMG, KBE (1888-1958)

Grandson of the restless, rebellious Ratu Kamisese Mara and a high chief of Bau and vasulevu to Lau in his own right, Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna was one of the great Fijian leaders of the first half of the 20th Century. A legend within his own lifetime, Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna proved himself as a chief and a scholar.

He was an exceptionally gallant soldier, joining the French Foreign Legion to fight in World War I, and was a national and military leader in WWII, commanding and inspiring many Fijian men to join up and fight for King and Country (Fiji being a colony of the British Empire at the time). He was a dedicated public servant and political leader of his people.