Hundreds line up Suva streets to farewell Ratu Epeli

Tears flowed freely in Suva this morning as the funeral procession of former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau made its way through the capital to State House.

His casket, draped in the Fiji flag, was carried on a gun carriage that moved slowly along the streets.

A vehicle carrying his immediate family followed — his wife, Adi Koila Nailatikau, and their children, Adi Litia and Ratu Kamisese Nailatikau.

Crowds lined the route from early morning. Some bowed their heads in silence, while others watched through tears as the cortege passed.

Ratu Epeli, who served as Fiji’s President from 2015 to 2021, was widely regarded as a unifying national figure. Before his presidency, he held senior roles in Government and the military, including as Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and later as Speaker of Parliament.

He also represented Fiji on the international stage as a diplomat, contributing to regional and global engagements over several decades.

His passing marks the end of a long career in public service that spanned leadership in the military, Government and diplomacy.