Reverend Akuila Yabaki (file image) Photo: RNZI Sally Round
The family of a prominent Fijian human rights advocate and community leader has launched a fundraising appeal for urgent hip replacement surgery.
Reverend Akuila Yabaki is a Methodist church clergyman and a former executive director of the Citizens' Constitutional Forum (CCF). His family says the medical treatment needs to be done "to address a serious medical condition that has significantly impaired his mobility and quality of life".
"Without this surgery, his condition is expected to worsen, further limiting his independence and daily functioning," the family says in their online appeal.
They total funds they are hoping to raise are just over NZ$12,000. Forty percent of the funds have already been raised since the online appeal was launched on Sunday.
"All donations received will go directly towards meeting Reverend Yabaki's medical and recovery needs, including surgical procedure and hospital fees, pre- and post-operative medical care, rehabilitation and physiotherapy, transportation and mobility support during recovery."
Rev Yabaki was a highly prominent human rights and pro-democracy advocate, particularly in the years following Fiji's 2006 military coup.
"During his tenure as Executive Director of CCF, he became a courageous voice for the vulnerable, marginalised, and those living on the outskirts of society, often speaking with wisdom and restraint in complex and challenging political contexts," his family say.
"His leadership has earned him enduring respect across civil society, faith communities, and the wider public."
