The spelling of the name "Kamisese Mara" can be a bit confusing, but it is actually quite straightforward when using IPA phonetic transcription. The first part of the name, "Kamisese", is pronounced /kæmɪsɛsɛ/, with the stress on the second syllable. The second part, "Mara", is pronounced /mɑːrə/, with the stress on the first syllable. When written out phonetically like this, it becomes easier to understand and properly pronounce this important name. Kamisese Mara was a Fijian political leader and the first Prime Minister of Fiji.
Kamisese Mara was a Fijian statesman and politician, who served as the first Prime Minister and later as the first President of Fiji. Born on 6 May 1920 in Lomaloma, Vanua Balavu, Lau Islands, Mara played a significant role in shaping the political and social landscape of Fiji.
Throughout his career, Kamisese Mara was closely associated with the Alliance Party, which he founded in 1966. He became Prime Minister of Fiji in 1970 after the country gained independence from British colonial rule. During his time as Prime Minister, Mara played a pivotal role in drafting Fiji's constitution and implementing policies that aimed to foster unity and stability in the ethnically diverse nation.
In 1987, Mara was appointed as the President of Fiji, a position he held until 1993. Despite facing several challenges and political upheavals during this period, he was widely respected for his diplomacy and commitment to preserving Fiji's unity.
Kamisese Mara's legacy extends beyond his political career. He is often recognized for his efforts to promote education and economic development in Fiji. His vision for Fiji was centered around fostering a society that embraced cultural diversity and upheld democratic principles.
Mara passed away on 18 April 2004, leaving behind a lasting impact on the political, social, and cultural fabric of Fiji. His name remains synonymous with leadership, statesmanship, and nation-building in Fiji's history.
The name "Kamisese Mara" has its origins in the Fijian language. "Kamisese" is a Fijian given name, while "Mara" is a Fijian surname.
"Kamisese" is a traditional Fijian name derived from two components. "Kami" means "our" or "belonging to us" in Fijian, and "sese" means "mistake" or "error". Hence, "Kamisese" can be loosely translated as "our mistake" or "our error". It is believed that the name was given to Kamisese Mara by his maternal uncle to acknowledge a mistake made in the family that needed to be corrected or redeemed.