Her tears share a link, woman with chiefly ties pays tribute to Ratu Epeli

Teresia Kapaiwai, 56, has strong blood ties to both former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau and his wife, Adi Koila Nailatikau.

An emotional Ms Kapaiwai was among many Fijians who paid tribute to Ratu Epeli yesterday.

She sat along Victoria Parade, opposite the Suva City Library, as the military-led cortege entered Suva on its way to the State House.

Ms Kapaiwai is from Nabukadra Village in Nakorotubu, Ra.

She is a direct descendant of the Turaga na Gonesau, a high-ranking chiefly title in the Nakorotubu district.

She is the daughter of Ratu Emosi Tutila Kapaiwai and granddaughter of Ratu Josua Mara Kapaiwai.

The Turaga na Gonesau are regarded as elders within the chiefly clan of Bau, from which Ratu Epeli’s lineage comes.

They were present during the installation of the Vunivalu of Bau, Ratu Epenisa Cakobau.

The Turaga na Gonesau also have links to the Yavusa Vuanirewa, tokatoka Matailakeba, in Nayau, Lau — the lineage of Adi Koila.

They were also present during the installation of the Tui Nayau, Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara.

Ms Kapaiwai’s chiefly home in Nabukadra Village is named Matailakeba.

Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna’s father, Ratu Jone Madraiwiwi, is buried at the Turaga na Gonesau’s Sautabu (chiefly burial ground) in Nabukadra Village.