He inspired others: Sir Moi

By TRACEY PARR
SIR Rabbie Namaliu was a staunch advocate for judicial independence, freedom of press and the rule of law, former Kairuku-Hiri MP Sir Moi Avei said in a tribute to his fellow senior statesman.
“The credentials he wanted to see was having in place the independence of judiciary and the rule of law,” the 76-year-old said yesterday.
“He continuously reminded us about the importance of having this credentials because this was what we needed to move the country forward.”
Sir Moi, a former deputy prime minister, said that Sir Rabbie was an intelligent leader who inspired many leaders around him and was loyal to his party and had integrity.
“My greatest satisfaction was many years ago on the floor of Parliament where I voted for Sir Rabbie Namaliu to be the Prime Minister,” he said.
Sir Moi said that Sir Rabbie had always expressed his belief that having good leaders was not enough but that these men needed to lead with honour and loyalty. He went on to describe Sir Rabbie as a noble leader who set a benchmark because of his good leadership skills.
Sir Moi shed tears while paying tribute to his close friend, Sir Rabbie, during the State funeral service held at the Apec Haus yesterday.