Levuka Braces for Chief’s Installation
“There were not many people at the installation in 1993. People have been arriving since last Monday, making this installation outstanding.”
Tuesday 21 May 2024 | 15:14
Women from Vuma Village in Levuka prepare mats and masi at Levuka Vakaviti Village on May 20, 2024. Photo: Leon Lord
Today marks a significant moment in the history of Levuka in Ovalau.
The title of Tui Levuka is set to be filled after it was vacant for 16 years.
This will take place at Levuka Vakaviti Village from 11am. The title, vacant since the death of Ratu Kolinio Rokotuinaceva in 2008, will today be taken over by his son, Ratu Etonia Seru Rokotuinaceva.
Related stories
Among the witnesses would be Tarusila Sorokibau, 83, of Levuka Vakaviti Village.
“I am so blessed to have lived to see the installation of two chiefs,” Ms Sorokibau said.
“I thank God for granting me long so that I can be part of this historical event.”
Recalling her involvement in the installation of Ratu Kolinio Rokotuinaceva in 1993, Ms Sorokibau reminisced about her role then.
“I cleaned and prepared food at the chief’s house.”
Comparing 1993 to today’s event, Ms Sorokibau has noted a stark contrast in attendance.
“There were not many people at the installation in 1993. People have been arriving since last Monday, making this installation outstanding.”
Expressing her hopes for the new Tui Levuka, Ms Sorokibau outlined the qualities she believes are essential in a leader.
“We need a chief who listens and respects its people, someone people can look up to,” she said.
“The new Tui Levuka is a man full of humour and well-respected by everyone. A very humble man, he is truly the chief of the people. Many have passed on, wishing to witness this historical event.
“Those who are still alive are happy to be part of this momentous occasion.
Bete, traditional priests, will play key roles in the installation, each with decades of experience and ancestral heritage.
From left; Traditional bete, Ratu Viko Ramatai Tagiveitaua and Ilaisa Tamani at Levuka Vakaviti Village on May 20, 2024. Photo: Leon Lord
Ratu Viko Ramatai Tagiveitaua from the lineage of the Yavusa o Solevu in the village of Nawaido, Solevu, Bua, shared insights into his family connection to this event.
Reflecting his deep-rooted respect for tradition, Ratu Viko recounted his unexpected yet deeply honoured participation in today’s ceremony.
“I am from the vuvale bete from the Yavusa o Solevu,” Ratu Viko said.
Ratu Viko expressed gratitude for his father’s involvement in the installation of Ratu Kolinio Rokotuinaceva in 1993, reflecting on the historic occasion.
His role, he explained, would include bestowing the chief with the symbols of authority, the salusalu ni vanua and the vesa ni vanua, followed by the ceremonial word of vosa ni veitautaunaki.
Feedback: lusiana.tuimaisala@fijisun.com.fj
