'He loved music, especially Sisili Mai Wainadoi:' Tribute to Ratu Epeli

“He loved music, especially ‘Sisili Mai Wainadoi’. Whenever we met, he would remind me of his favourite song.”

That is how a former Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) serviceman remembers the late Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.

Rabici Logavatu Vuikadavu, of Lomanikoro in Rewa, said his memories of Ratu Epeli stretch back to the early 1970s after he joined the military in 1970.

He said he was not only as a disciplined military leader and statesman, but also as a warm, approachable man who never lost his human touch.

He recalled first meeting the young officer during a parade in the colonial era, where his leadership qualities were already evident.

“He is a man we all knew, from the top to the bottom,” Mr Vuikadavu said.

“In the military, everything begins with discipline — how you dress, how you carry yourself. He always had a different mindset from the rest of us.”

He said Ratu Epeli stood out not only as a commander, but as someone junior officers could easily approach.

“He was easy to talk to when we had problems. That’s something not many leaders have,” he said. “He was truly down to earth.”

Beyond the discipline of military life, Mr Vuikadavu said the late leader also had a lighter, more personal side, enjoying simple moments and social gatherings.

“He was always happy during social occasions,” he said.

For Mr Vuikadavu, these memories reflect a leader who balanced authority with humility, and rank with genuine connection to people.

He said Ratu Epeli’s life journey — from the ranks of the military to the highest office in the country — continues to offer lessons for future generations.

“We should all learn from the legacy he has shown — his discipline, his respect for others, and the way he carried himself,” he said.

As Fiji mourns, tributes have highlighted Ratu Epeli Nailatikau’s leadership, humility, and enduring connection with people across all walks of life.

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