Kamisese Mara, often referred to as the “Father of the Nation,” was born on May 6, 1920, in Lomaloma, Vanua Balavu, in the Colony of Fiji. His early life was shaped by the traditions of his chiefly lineage, which instilled in him a deep sense of duty and leadership. Mara’s education began in Fiji, but his intellectual pursuits took him overseas. He attended the University of Otago in New Zealand, where he studied medicine, and later shifted to history and economics at Oxford University in England. These formative years abroad broadened his worldview and prepared him for the challenges of leading a nation on the brink of independence.
The Making of a Leader
Upon returning to Fiji, Mara quickly rose through the ranks of public service. He became a member of the Legislative Council in 1953 and was instrumental in laying the groundwork for Fiji’s independence from British colonial rule. His vision for Fiji was one of unity and progress, and he worked tirelessly to bridge the divides between the indigenous Fijian and Indo-Fijian communities. In 1967, Mara became Fiji’s first Chief Minister, a position that set the stage for his eventual role as the nation’s first Prime Minister after independence in 1970.
Prime Minister and President: A Legacy of Nation-Building
As Prime Minister, Mara focused on economic development, education, and infrastructure. He championed the establishment of the University of the South Pacific, which became a regional hub for higher education. Mara also prioritized agricultural development, particularly in the sugar industry, which was a cornerstone of Fiji’s economy. His leadership during this period was marked by stability and growth, earning him respect both domestically and internationally.
In 1993, Mara transitioned to the role of President of Fiji, a position he held until 2000. During his presidency, he continued to advocate for national unity and democratic governance. However, his tenure was not without challenges. Mara faced criticism for his handling of the 1987 coups, with some accusing him of not doing enough to protect democratic institutions. Despite these criticisms, his contributions to Fiji’s development remain undeniable.
Honors, Achievements, and Commemorations of Kamisese Mara
Mara’s legacy is celebrated through numerous honors and achievements. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II and received several international awards for his leadership. In 2000, Fiji honored Mara by featuring him on the 2,000 Dollars commemorative banknote, a testament to his enduring impact on the nation. This banknote, measuring 200 x 100 mm, not only pays tribute to Mara but also commemorates Fiji’s unique geographical position as the first country to witness the new millennium and the last to see the sunset of the old.
The banknote’s obverse features the founding father of modern Fiji and President H. E. Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, alongside vibrant flowers, an embossed patch, the national emblem, and a horizontal blue print that says “COMMEMORATING THE YEAR 2000 WHERE THE MILLENNIUM BEGINS” and y2k overprints. The reverse features a globe with a rising sun, a map of Fiji, and the 180 degrees meridian, highlighting the country’s significance in global timekeeping. Seashells and corals add a touch of Fiji’s natural beauty, tying the nation’s cultural and environmental heritage to its progress under Mara’s leadership.
