Adi Dionani Salaivanua, who according to the Fijian Elections Office is the oldest voter in Fiji, cast her vote at Naividamu, Seaqaqa in Vanua Levu yesterday.

“It is a great feeling and I’m glad that I got to vote today,” she said. Her family say she is 117.

Her 38-year-old granddaughter, Viniana Rekibula, said that in 2014,  Adi Dionani was able to vote at a nearby school. However in the last three years, Adi Dionani has been unable to walk.

She was grateful to Fijian Elections Office staff for coming to her doorstep so she could cast her vote for this year’s election.

She lives with her daughter-in-law who described her as a gifted individual.

“My grandmother is multi-skilled, especially in art and craft, fishing and weaving mats,” Ms Rekibula said.

“She has also imparted important skills to me, which I can use for my entire life.

“A few years ago, she was strong enough and could even go out to catch prawns. It is indeed a memorable moment to be able to have voted with my grandmother.”

Adi Dionani’s 73-year-old son, Isireli Nawakalukalu also said it was a privilege to be able to vote with his mother.

“This is history for us,” he said.

Edited by Percy Kean

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