PREPARATIONS for the State Funeral of former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau are in its final stages, as Fiji prepares to farewell one of its senior national leaders with full military and traditional honours.
In a statement, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said arrangements were being finalised at the State House, Albert Park, and Bau Island.
“We ask all Fijians to continue observing protocols and to participate with respect and unity,” said Mr Rabuka.
He said the former president would be accorded ceremonial rites beginning today, with the reguregu to be held at State House from today until Thursday.
“Delegations are required to register through the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs.
“On Thursday, the cortege will depart Oceania Hospital at 6am under the escort of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), travelling through central Suva routes including Waimanu Rd, Mark St, Usher St, Scott St, Victoria Pde, and Queen Elizabeth Dr.
“Members of the public are encouraged to line the route to pay their respects.
“The former president will lie in state at State House, with controlled public access for viewing from 8.30am to 8pm.
“The State funeral service will be held at Albert Park on Friday at 8.30am, open to all members of the public, before the final procession to Bau Island for traditional rites and burial at the scared sau tabu at 2pm.”
Meanwhile, the RFMF will also conduct a funeral procession rehearsal in Suva today from 6.30am to 9am ahead of the state funeral, with temporary traffic disruptions expected along the designated route.
A ceremonial firing of 105-millimeter howitzer blanks will also take place at Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua between 10am and 12pm as part of preparations.
The national flag remains at half-mast as Fiji continues to honour the late Ratu Epeli’s service.
