The names of the 44 people who died during Cyclone Winston have been read out at a commemoration in the Fiji capital Suva.
Multi-faith National Service of Remembrance & Thanksgiving to Commemorate the Anniversary of #TCWinston #Togetherasone pic.twitter.com/8Z3TYWTQjv
— Faiyaz Koya (@FijiMITT) February 19, 2017
It's a year ago today since the storm struck, affecting nearly two thirds of the country and causing nearly a billion US dollars in damage.
Employers had been asked to let as many workers as possible attend the ceremony which was led by the president Jioji Konrote.
Representatives of some of the worst affected communities were invited to attend the multi faith service at Suva's Albert Park.
The government said it was a moment to remember those who died and give thanks Winston spared much of the rest of Fiji.
Beautiful setting juxtaposed to horror of 12 months ago. Moving rememberance ceremony in #AlbertPark #Suva for 44 lives lost to #TCWinston. pic.twitter.com/QkD8aKZGId
— Aleta Miller (@AletaFMiller) February 19, 2017
An opposition leader Sitiveni Rabuka said the service was inappropriate given thousands are still suffering in tent homes and classrooms one year on.
He said the funds spent on getting school children and civil servants to attend the event would be better spent on rehabilitation.
