This position has been vacant for seven years after the previous Naitaka passed away.

On a beautiful Saturday in Moturiki, Lomaiviti, Isikeli Koroimatanibukalevu Raratabu handed over a bilo (coconut cup) filled with kava to Saiasi Rogonabou Lagiratu Raratabu to consume.

This act of drinking kava symbolised a significant day for not only the people of Moturiki, but for the Kubuna Confederacy.

The Turaga-na-Naitaka, the unique chiefly title to the people of Nasauvuki in Moturiki, was installed on May 26.

Saiasi Rogonabou Lagiratu Raratabu’s acceptance of the bilo from Isikeli Koroimatanibukalevu Raratabu showed that day that he accepted the chiefly title and its role.

This position has been vacant for seven years after the previous Turaga-na-Naitaka passed away.

The relationship between the previous holder, and the newly-installed chief was that their fathers were brothers.

The event, is significant as elder of Nasauvuki, Maciu Vasu, said: “Once the Naitaka is installed, he would then initiate the installation of the Ratu mai Moturiki.”

Mr Vasu added that the Ratu-mai-Moturiki would then install the Roko Tui Bau and Roko Tui Bau installs the Vunivalu.

The event saw family members, neighbouring villagers, families and the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and Lomaitiviti Provincial Council representatives attend the installation.

Family members travelled from all over Fiji and as far as New Zealand to witness the momentous occasion.

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

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