Kiuva Village in Tailevu was a sea of black and white as they mourn the loss of their late chief, Ratu Tevita Tawake.

Ratu Tevita passed away early last Tuesday morning at the Valelevu in Kiuva Village.

Government ministers led by the Attorney-General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum joined the Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama in paying their final respects to the late chief yesterday.

The late Ratu Tevita was a staunch supporter of the Bainimarama Government.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum yesterday described the late Ratu Tevita as a highly respected and admired chief.

“We mourn his loss. We also celebrate his life and the guidance he provided through his wisdom and firm leadership,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.

The late Ratu Tevita was part of one of the Fijian contingent to fight the communists in Malaya under the British government between 1952 and 1956.

Tailevu Ex-Servicemen Association executive, John Whippy yesterday described the late Ratu Tevita as a God fearing man who loved and served God in all he did.

“He was a humble and hardworking chief and the Ex-Servicemen Association used to look up to him,” Mr Whippy said.

“He was a chief who served God, King and his country. He never once thought of compensation but gave his life to serve for his country.”

The late Ratu Tevita has been holding the chiefly title of Roko Tui Kiuva for almost 30 years.

Before he passed away last week, the late Ratu Tevita had reminded the villagers to work together for the vanua and serve the Lord in all they did.

He was laid to rest at the ‘Sau Tabu’ at Kiuva Village yesterday.

Edited Manasa Kalouniviti

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