Ni moce mada kemuni: Ro Teimumu pays tribute to Ratu Epeli Nailatikau

Grief and deep respect have marked tributes for the late former President of Fiji, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, with the Marama Bale na Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa describing his passing as a profound loss felt across the nation.

Ro Teimumu said Ratu Epeli was not only a national leader but also a close relative, sharing common ancestry through Ratu Timoci Tavanavanua of Bau and Tupoutu’a Veikune.

“The passing of Ratu Epeli has indeed left many in shock and the flowing tributes on social media shows how his personality touched many lives that he came in contact with.”

Drawing on scripture, she reflected on his humility and service.

“The bible says in Matthew 23:11: ‘The greatest among you shall be your servant’.”

“This verse describes the humility and love that the Late Ratu Epeli Nailatikau donned when he served in the various office he was called too, the Commander of the Royal Fiji Military Forces, the Ambassadorial posts, the interim Minister post, the office of the Speaker of Parliament and the office of the President.”

Ro Teimumu said Ratu Epeli embodied true leadership through humility and accessibility.

“Ratu Epeli, exemplified what a leader should be. He was a servant leader, who did not use his position to get what he wanted instead he showed us how it was done, by walking amongst us in town, queuing the line or even surprised many with his friendly gesture, wave or handshakes.”

She described him as a pillar of strength and wisdom whose influence extended beyond Fiji.

“Na Turaga mai Naisogolaca was a pillar of strength and wisdom whose leadership reached far beyond the borders of Kubuna and Fiji as a whole.”

“We remember him not only as a noble leader but as a guardian of our nation’s history and formation, a true servant of our people. Ratu Epeli’s legacy of deep compassion and humility has left an indelible mark on all of us.”

In mourning his loss, she expressed solidarity with his family and vanua.

“In this time of mourning, we stand in solidarity with the Vanua o Kubuna, the Naisogolaca household, his beloved wife, Adi Koila and his two children Ratu Kamisese and Adi Litia. We share in your grief for the loss of such a man, a husband, a father, a leader whose demise is a loss to the entire nation.”

“We pray that the Almighty, grant Adi Koila, the children, the Naisogolaca Household and vanua o Kubuna, strength and peace to navigate this difficult transition.”

“On behalf of the people of Burebasaga, I wish to convey our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to you, Adi Koila, Ratu Kamisese and Adi Litia.”

“May the soul of the Late Taukei Naisogolaca, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau find eternal rest, and may his vision continue to guide us as we honor his memory.”

“Ni Moce Mada Kemuni.”