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by Alan Howard Hef Ran Ta is a biography of Wilson Inia, the man who, more than any other, led Rotuma into the modern age. He was an educator, a moral leader, the guiding light of the Rotuma Cooperative Association, and Rotuma's first senator in the Fiji Parliament.
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The following quote is from the book's conclusion: "Wilson Inia dedicated his life to public service, and did so with grace, integrity and courage. He aspired, as much as any individual I have known, to the virtues of the "golden mean." He was a devout Christian who advocated respect for others' religious beliefs, a moralist who recognized the rights of others to make their own moral choices, an idealist with a strong practical bent, and a romantic who blushed at impropriety. He was frugal without being stingy; dignified, but with a keen sense of humour. As a father, teacher, and business manager he was a strict disciplinarian, but he believed punishment should never be fortuitous, that it should always serve to teach a lesson. He was a strong leader who valued humility, a democrat who recognized the importance of strong leadership. He vigourously advocated respect for law, but condoned breaking rules when they were harmful to the public interest. He advocated development, but believed in preserving cherished traditions" (p. 210). | |
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