THE National Federation Party will be celebrating its 55 years of existence at its annual convention in Ba this Saturday.
Party leader Professor Biman Prasad said the party’s roots remained unshakeable as it beefed up preparations for Fiji’s much anticipated general elections.
“The NFP is the oldest political party in Fiji and 55 years of existence speaks volumes about the party’s character and credibility,” Prof Prasad said.
“We have survived four military coups, three electoral defeats in general elections and severe restrictions imposed on political activities for a few years from April 2009.”
He said the fact that the party overcame challenges that many other political parties have succumbed to and is now one of the three main political parties vying to form the next Government is no small feat.
“The many thousands of our members, supporters, stalwarts and well-wishers should feel proud that they have been part of a party that has never shirked its principles in the last 55 years,” Prof Prasad said.
“We have proven that the roots of the NFP mango tree are unshakeable.”
Prof Prasad said the convention would be held at the A D Patel College in Ba and this was symbolic as Mr Patel was NFP’s founder and former leader.
“This Saturday we expect all our branches around the country to be represented in large numbers in what will be a genuinely multiracial convention showcasing what the NFP is all about,” he said.
Professor Prasad said apart from him and party president Pio Tikoduadua, the convention would also be addressed by prominent constitutional lawyer Richard Naidu and politician Krishna Datt.
“We will also hear from our youth and women’s representatives. We will also make some more announcements of provisional candidates,” Prof Prasad said.
Prof Prasad said this would be a convention to remember and had urged all supporters to gather at A D Patel College and hear what the party plans to do if it forms the next Government.
