Penaia Ganilau

Ratu Sir Penaia Ganilau (1918 - 1993) was a Fijian statesman, who served as his country's last Governor-General (1983-1987) and first President (1987-1993). He was one of the four Chiefs groomed for leadership by Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna. He was the father of the contemporary politician, Ratu Epeli Ganilau.

Quotes

 * With humble duty, I wish to submit to you the following advice, acting in my capacity as your representative in Fiji. Owing to the uncertainty of the political and constitutional situation in Fiji, I have now made up my mind to request Your Majesty to relieve me of my appointment as Governor-General with immediate effect. This I do with utmost regret, but my endeavours to preserve constitutional government in Fiji have proved in vain, and I can see no alternative way forward. With deepest respect, Penaia Ganilau, Governor-General.
 * letter of resignation to Queen Elizabeth II