The Vanua o Naitasiri has announced that the late Turaga Na Qaranivalu, Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, will be laid to rest on Friday at the chiefly burial ground in Navuso, Naitasiri. His body is set to be moved from the Colonial War Memorial Hospital Morgue to his home the following day.
Traditional respects, known as reguregu, will commence from this afternoon in Navuso, signifying the community’s deep respect as they prepare to honor their leader. Ratu Inoke, who passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of 78, was a prominent member of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), where he was a steadfast advocate for the i-Taukei people.
His legacy as a committed political figure also includes his tenure as Minister for Regional Development and Multi-Ethnic Affairs during Prime Minister Lasenia Qarase’s interim Cabinet from 2000 to 2001. Ratu Inoke held the title of Turaga Na Qaranivalu since 1997, and his significant contributions extend to his involvement in the GCC, where he participated in multiple meetings aimed at addressing important communal issues.
In a complex aspect of his life, Ratu Inoke was previously convicted for instigating the 2000 coup attempt but received a presidential pardon from former President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere in 2023, allowing him to re-engage with the community without the burden of past convictions. His passing is a moment of collective mourning for the community, but it also serves as an opportunity to reflect on his enduring impact and inspire unity among the i-Taukei people.
As the community prepares for the funeral, there is hope that Ratu Inoke’s legacy will continue to encourage resilience and cohesion among its members, fostering a strong sense of identity and purpose moving forward.
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