ROKO Tui Drekei Ro Teimumu Kepa has paid tribute to the late Tui Vuda Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia calling the late chief a leader with good morals and high standards.
“I have received news of the passing of the Viyagwane na Jui Vuda, Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia and feel bereaved that a Paramount Chief of the Yasana o Ba and the Burebasaga Confederacy is no longer with us,” Ro Teimumu said in a statement.
“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.”
The leader of the Burebasaga confederacy extended their condolences to the family and the Vanua o Vunisei.
“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.
“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.
“Ni qai moce toka mada na Turaga na Tui Vuda.”
Traditional protocols have been observed since last Friday with the Vanua of Vuda preparing for the chiefly burial on August 12 at Viseisei village.
The late Ratu Eparama’s casket will be accorded a full military escort from the Lautoka Hospital on August 11.
