Fiji Labour Party President Lavenia Padarath has passed away at the age of 74.

This was confirmed to FBC News by FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry.

Chaudhry says Padarath passed away at the CWM Hospital this morning after a short illness.

He adds the passing away of Padarath is a loss for the party as she was committed to her role and was one who could take up any challenge.

Late Padarath served as the Minister for Women, Culture and Social Welfare in the 1999/2000 Labour Government.

She was also appointed to the position of party leader in 2011.

She had a long involvement with the National Council of Women – serving as both its Secretary and President.

Her son Ben Padarath has also posted on his Facebook page – saying the family mourns the loss of a mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin and sister.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later.