Political Leaders Cakobau, former monarch (1800s) Epeli Nailatikau (b. 1941), soldier, diplomat, and statesman George Cakobau (1912-1989), Paramount Chief and Governor General (1972-1982) George Speight (b. 1957), coup leader (2000) Irene Jai Narrayen (b. 1932), stateswoman Josaia Voreqe (Frank) Bainimarama, military administrator (2000) Josefa Iloilo (b. 1920), President (2000-present) Kamisese Mara (b. 1920), founder of the modern Fijian nation. Chief Minister/Prime Minister, 1967-1992 (with two very brief interruptions); President, 1994-2000. Koila Mara Nailatikau, diplomat and stateswoman Laisenia Qarase, Prime Minister (2000-present) Mahendra Chaudhry, Prime Minister (1999-2000) Penaia Ganilau, Governor-General (1983-1987); President (1987-1994) Sitiveni Rabuka, military leader and politician. Coup leader (1987); Prime Minister (1992-1999). Timoci Bavadra (1934-1989), Fiji Labour Party founder; Prime Minister (1987) Scientists Eci Nabalarua, Fiji Counsel - Social Sciences Rusi Vulakoro, BMZ New Zealand- Ocean Science Shaheen Lakhan- Harvard University, Faculty Of Arts And Sciences - Biochemistry And Legal Sciences Sportsmen and -women Rupeni Caucaunibuca (b. 5 June 1980), rugby player Waisale Serevi (b. 20 May 1968), rugby player Vijay Singh (b. 22 February 1963), golfer Other Lists of Fijians Cabinet of Fiji (including list) House of Representatives of Fiji (including list) List of Fijian Heads of State List of Governors of Fiji List of Governors-General of Fiji List of Presidents of Fiji List of Prime Ministers of Fiji Senate of Fiji (including list) List of Speakers of the Fijian House of Representatives
