The Public Service Commission (PSC) of Fiji has announced its immense loss with the passing of Ratu Isoa Talemaibua, the Permanent Secretary, lauded as a dedicated civil service leader. Luke Rokovada, the chairman of PSC, expressed profound sadness at the loss, highlighting Ratu Isoa’s noteworthy contributions to Fiji’s public service sector over his career from 2009 until his recent demise.
Ratu Isoa held several pivotal roles, including as Permanent Secretary for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management between 2023 and 2025. Prior to this, he was the Head of Budget and Planning at the Ministry of Finance from 2018 to 2023 and served as Acting Chief Economic Planning Officer in the Expenditure Management Unit of the Budget Division from 2016 to 2018.
Rokovada commended Ratu Isoa for leading a team of young budget specialists in executing essential government policy mandates during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership was crucial to the success of programs such as food ration distributions, the Unemployment Benefit Assistance program, and the General Practitioner Scheme, providing critical support to Fiji’s most vulnerable communities.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ratu Isoa was remembered for his collegiality and warm demeanor. He was a well-respected and jovial member of the Permanent Secretary Forum, leaving a lasting impact on his colleagues.
On behalf of the PSC and the Commission, Rokovada extended heartfelt condolences to Ratu Isoa’s family, including his wife Mrs. Taraivini Senirewa Qiowasa Talemaibua, and their children, during this time of profound loss. His passing marks a significant moment in Fiji’s history, as the nation mourns a leader whose legacy in civil service leadership remains irreplaceable.