It’s Vuda not Bau
Bau chief Ratu Epenisa Cakobau may have spoken too soon about the visit to Fiji of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
It is understood that the Vanua of Vuda not Bau will perform the traditional welcome ceremony for the Royal couple at Albert Park in Suva on October 23.
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Details of their programme are still being worked out. It appears that Ratu Epenisa who has posted that Bau was meeting on Tuesday to discuss the traditional welcome, had spoken prematurely.
Vuda is also steeped in history, culture and legends.
According to folklore, it was the spot where the first iTaukei landed after they sailed from the African continent. So the historical significance makes it also appropriate for the Vuda people to perform the welcome ceremony. From Vuda the iTaukei spread to the rest of Fiji. Viseisei village in Vuda was where they camped before going out. Viseisei means the point of departure.
Ratu Epenisa says sorry
Ratu Epenisa Cakobau has apologised on social media for saying that former British Army soldier Derrick Derenalagi had invited the Royal couple to Fiji not Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.
It is understood that Mr Derenalagi said Ratu Epenisa's claim was not true.