Tributes honour Tui Vuda's legacy of leadership and service

Tributes have continued to pour in for the late Tui Vuda, Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia, as the Vanua of Vuda observes traditional mourning ahead of his burial next week.

Ratu Eparama, who passed away last Thursday at the age of 95, will be laid to rest on Wednesday, August 12, at his traditional chiefly burial grounds in Viseisei Village.

The Turaga na Taukei Nakelo of the Sauturaga, or kingmakers clan, Ratu Josaia Natakele, said preparations for the chiefly funeral were well underway.

Marama Bale na Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa described the late Tui Vuda as a chief whose leadership and values would continue to inspire others.

"As we mourn his passing, we must hold onto the values and principles he had upheld and lived throughout his long life.

"Fiji has been blessed with chiefs like the late Turaga na Tui Vuda, who led with good morals and high standards."

On behalf of the Vanua o Burebasaga, she extended condolences to the Vanua o Vunisei and the family of the late chief.

"I, on behalf of the Vanua o Burebasaga convey our deepest condolences to the vanua o Vunisei on the passing of a great chief whose leadership is an example to many of us that continue to lead our vanua and people."

She also conveyed the condolences of the Matanitu Vanua o Burebasaga and the people of Rewa.

"I, on behalf of the Matanitu Vanua o Burebasaga and my people of Rewa extend my condolences and prayers to the family of the late Turaga na Tui Vuda, the Radini Vuda and members of his household.

"Eternal rest grant to the late Ratu Eparama Tavaiqia na Turaga na Tui Vuda, and may perpetual light, shine upon thee.

"Ni qai moce toka mada na Turaga na Tui Vuda."

Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu also paid tribute, describing Ratu Eparama as a respected traditional leader whose service would be remembered.

"It is with deep sadness that my family and I learned of the passing of the Momo na Tui Vuda, the late Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia."

She extended her condolences to his family and the Vanua of Vuda.

"On behalf of my family and myself, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the Vanua of Vuda, and all who mourn his passing. Fiji has lost a respected traditional leader whose wisdom, humility, and commitment to his people will be remembered for generations."

Ms Bainivalu also recalled The People's Alliance Party's first official visit to the Vanua o Vuda in June 2022, when a delegation presented its sevusevu and boka to the late Tui Vuda.

She said the delegation, led by the party president, the Momo na Tui Nadi, Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci, was warmly received by Ratu Eparama.

"During that visit, the late Turaga na Tui Vuda graciously received the delegation, affirmed the candidacy of Ratu Tevita Momoedonu Jnr of the chiefly household of Sawaieke, and offered his blessings and well wishes to The People's Alliance Party."

She said the occasion reflected his generosity and leadership.

"It was a significant moment in our party's journey and reflected his generosity, leadership, and respect for democratic engagement."

Ms Bainivalu said Ratu Eparama's legacy would continue to be remembered.

"As a Member of Parliament and a member of The People's Alliance Party, I honour his legacy of service to the Vanua and acknowledge the profound contribution he made to the people of Vuda and to Fiji.

"May God grant comfort and strength to his family, the Vanua of Vuda, and all who grieve during this difficult time.

"May the late na Momo na Tui Vuda, Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia soul rest in eternal peace."

Traditional reguregu is under way in Viseisei Village, where members of the Vanua, relatives and well-wishers are paying their final respects ahead of Ratu Eparama's burial on Wednesday, August 12.