PORT VILA, 29 July: Nearly 100 days have passed since the untimely death of Jacob Kausiama, the esteemed Public Solicitor of Vanuatu, and the Ministry of Justice and Community Services (MJCS) is preparing to honor his memory.
Mr. Kausiama, who was a cornerstone of Vanuatu’s justice sector and a staunch advocate for the rights of the nation’s most vulnerable citizens, passed away unexpectedly on April 23 of this year, leaving behind his wife, Lenah, and their two young children.
Born in 1979 on the island of Tanna, Mr. Kausiama left his homeland to pursue legal studies. He joined the Public Solicitor's Office in 2004, rising through the ranks from Legal Officer to become the third-ever Public Solicitor in 2010. His dedication and passion for justice earned him widespread respect and admiration within the legal community.
Arthur Faerua, Director General of MJCS, praised Mr. Kausiama’s significant contributions to the office. “Jacob’s mission was to deliver high-quality professional legal services to Vanuatu’s needy citizens,” Faerua stated.
“His unwavering commitment to the Public Solicitor’s Office and the vulnerable individuals it serves was evident to everyone who worked with him. His determination and advocacy made a lasting impact on many lives, and his legacy will be remembered and honored.”
According to the Public Solicitor's Office, a memorial service for late Jacob Kausiama will be held at Paton Memorial Presbyterian Church on Saturday, July 27, his birthday. This will be followed by a traditional ceremony conducted by the high chiefs of North Pentecost at Maliudu Nakamal on July 30, which coincides with Vanuatu's Independence Day and the official flag-raising ceremony marking 44 years of Vanuatu’s sovereignty. On July 31, exactly 100 days after his passing, family and friends will gather to pay their final respects by visiting his family and his grave at the Port Vila cemetery.
DG Arthur Faerua finally expressed the deep sense of loss felt throughout the MJCS: “We are heartbroken by his loss and are committed to building upon the work he did and honoring his legacy”.
During this week of remembrance, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, and we stand united in our grief as we celebrate Jacob’s lifelong commitment to supporting Vanuatu’s most vulnerable people.