16/04/2026
*Funeral Remarks for His Excellency Ratu Epeli Nailatikau*
We gather today with heavy hearts, yet also with deep gratitude, to honor the life of Ratu Epeli Nailatikau — statesman, soldier, diplomat, and son of Fiji.
To many, he was Mr. President, a leader who carried the dignity of this nation on the world stage. To others, he was a chief of Bau, bearing his lineage with humility and a sense of duty instilled by his forefathers. To his family, he was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather whose warmth never dimmed, even under the weight of public office.
Ratu Epeli’s life traced the story of modern Fiji. From his years in the military, to his service as Speaker of the House, as High Commissioner, as Minister for Foreign Affairs, and finally as our President from 2009 to 2015, he met each role with the same quiet discipline and grace. He believed in dialogue over division. As President, he opened State House to all communities and championed HIV/AIDS awareness at a time when silence was easier. That took courage — the kind that does not seek headlines, but leaves a legacy.
Those who worked alongside him remember his dry wit, his encyclopedic memory, and his insistence on protocol not for its own sake, but because respect mattered to him. Respect for people, for tradition, and for the promise of Fiji as a home for everyone.
Today we do not only mourn a former Head of State. We farewell a man who taught us that leadership is service, that chiefly status is responsibility, and that kindness is never weakness.
To Adi Koila, to his children and grandchildren, and to the vanua of Bau: vinaka vakalevu for sharing him with the nation. Your loss is Fiji’s loss.
Ratu Epeli, moce mada. May you rest in peace, and may your example guide those who follow. The flag may be lowered, but the standard you set remains.
Vinaka, sir. We will not forgotten 😭🖤
