Jioji Konrote facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Konrote
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Konrote in 2017
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| President of Fiji | |
| In office 12 November 2015 – 12 November 2021 |
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| Prime Minister | Frank Bainimarama |
| Preceded by | Ratu Epeli Nailatikau |
| Succeeded by | Ratu Wiliame Katonivere |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Jioji Konousi Konrote
26 December 1947 Rotuma, Fiji |
| Political party | FijiFirst |
| Spouse | Sarote Faga Konrote |
| Children | 2 |
| Alma mater | Natabua High School |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | Republic of Fiji |
| Branch/service | Republic of Fiji Military Forces |
| Rank | Major-General |
Jioji Konousi "George" Konrote (born 26 December 1947) is a Fijian politician and a retired Major-General from the Fiji Military. He served as the President of Fiji from 2015 to 2021.
Before becoming president, Konrote had a long career. He commanded peacekeeping missions in Lebanon. He also served as Fiji's High Commissioner (like an ambassador) to Australia. Later, he became a government minister. Konrote was the first president of Fiji who was not from the iTaukei people (he is Rotuman). He was also the first president not to be a chief. And he was the first Seventh-day Adventist chosen by the parliament. Earlier presidents were chosen by the Great Council of Chiefs.
Contents
Early Life and Military Service
Growing Up in Rotuma
George Konrote was born on the island of Rotuma. He went to Natabua High School in Lautoka, Fiji. His time at school is mentioned in a book called Kava in the Blood by Peter Thomson.
A Career in the Military
Konrote joined the RFMF in 1966. He trained with defense forces in New Zealand and Australia. He studied at important military schools. These included the Australian College of Defence and Strategic Studies in Canberra. He also studied at Harvard Kennedy School in the United States.
Peacekeeping Missions
Konrote rose through the ranks in the Fijian military. He led Fijian soldiers in peacekeeping efforts in Lebanon. This was part of the Fiji's UNIFIL campaign. He became a Deputy Force Commander for the UNIFIL operation. Later, he was the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Force Commander in Lebanon.
Awards for Service
For his work, Konrote received several awards. He got the UNIFIL Peace Medal in 1978. He also received the Military Cross from the United Kingdom in 1982. Other awards include the Order of Merit from Italy and the Order of the Cedar from Lebanon. In 1997, he was made an Officer of the Order of Fiji.
Diplomatic and Political Career
Serving as an Ambassador
From 2001 to 2006, Konrote was Fiji's High Commissioner to Australia. This role is similar to being an ambassador. It means he represented Fiji in Australia.
Entering Politics
After his time as High Commissioner, Konrote entered politics. He was elected to represent the Rotuman people in the 2006 election. He then became the Minister of State for Immigration and Ex-Servicemen. This role ended when the government was changed in 2006.
Joining FijiFirst
Even though he served in the previous government, Konrote later joined Frank Bainimarama's party, FijiFirst. He ran in the 2014 election and won many votes. In September 2014, he became the Minister for Employment Opportunities, Productivity and Industrial Relations.
Becoming President
On 12 October 2015, George Konrote was elected as the President of Fiji. He officially started his role on 12 November 2015. During his time as president, he met important people. For example, Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex attended a State dinner with him in 2018.
