Ratu Timoci Tavanavanua is next in line to hold the title of Roko Tui Bau.

He is the younger brother of the late Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi.

This was confirmed by the Turaga na Masau, the traditional spokesman for the Roko Tui Bau, Ratu Kinijoji Toganivalu.

But whether Ratu Timoci will accept the role is yet to be known.

Ratu Kinijoji said they will soon meet with Ratu Timoci to know of his decision.

“The meeting will take place after the 100 nights. We don’t have to pick who is the Roko Tui Bau because the Roko Tui Bau is already there.

“If he agrees to take the cup to be the Roko Tui Bau, than that’s it. But if that does not happen, then maybe it will fall on Adi Sofia Veisaca. But at the moment it’s Ratu Timoci Tavanavanua who should be the Roko Tui Bau.”

Both Ratu Timoci and Adi Sofia donated their kidney to their older brother. The first transplant by Ratu Timoci did not work but that of his sister’s was successful.

Childhood friend and fellow lawyer Graham Leung in a moving eulogy talked about the humorous and challenging times spent with Ratu Joni.

“It’s paradoxic that a man born of the aristocracy and destined for greatness was in many respects, was given greater respect from countries outside of his birth.

“His messages of peace, reconciliation, tolerance and exclusiveness often fell on barren soil in this country.”

Mr Leung said that while it was inevitable that Ratu Joni’s fine intelligence, lineage and natural gifts would propel him to greater heights on the national and international stage, he was in fact a very private person.

“Happiest when he was writing notes, postcards or sending emails or having several cups of tea and yarning with his family and friends.”

He had an uncanny ability to remember people’s names and how they were connected.

In his eulogy, Mr Leung also talked about Ratu Joni’s forced departure from office after the December 2006 military take over.

Earlier yesterday both the President of Nauru Baron Waqa and the King of Tonga, King George Tupou VI presented their ireguregu just before the thanksgiving service at the Ratu Cakobau Memorial Church.

The State funeral was attended by people from all walks of life.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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