THE passing of the Momo na Tui Vuda, Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia, marks the end of a remarkable life devoted to duty, service, and the enduring values that define our nation, says Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka.
In a tribute message over the weekend Mr Gavoka said Ratu Eparama carried the weight of chiefly responsibility with quiet dignity, wisdom, and humility.
“Long before he assumed the mantle of Paramount Chief, he answered another call to duty as one of Fiji’s sons that served in the Malayan Campaign,” Mr Gavoka said.
“He was one of two of the surviving veterans and highly venerated by the ex-servicemen community.
“His authority was never proclaimed; it was earned through character. His leadership reminded us that true greatness is found not in privilege, but in service and steadfastness.”
He said the measure of a man is the legacy he leaves in the hearts of his people.
“By that measure, Ratu Eparama’s life was one of uncommon distinction. Soldier, chief, and guardian of one of Fiji’s most historic Vanua, he leaves behind an example worthy of remembrance and emulation.
“For me and my people of Sila in Cuvu, this loss is felt with profound sadness. We are the Mata-i-Vuda for the Vanua o Louvaju, entrusted by our ancestors as Ambassadors to the Vanua o Vuda. Across the generations, that sacred relationship has been sustained through duty, respect and custom, serving as a living testament to the ties that unite our Vanua.
“As we mourn the Viyagwane na Jui Vuda, we honour not only a revered chief and distinguished veteran, but also a relationship that has long enriched the heritage of our people.”
Mr Gavoka led the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) delegation last Saturday in paying its traditional reguregu to honour the enduring relationship between the Party and the Vanua o Vuda, following the passing of the Tui Vuda on July 30.
The late Tui Vuda will be laid to rest this Wednesday at his traditional chiefly burial grounds in Viseisei Village.
Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka (second from right) with SODELPA representatives and Ratu Inoke Momoedonu (second from left). Picture: SUPPLIED
