Villagers in Nasau gathered to celebrate the civil union of Turaga na Tui Nasau, Vonivate Vetaukula, and his partner of 20 years, Selai Vetaukula. The couple exchanged vows during a modest ceremony held at the Nasau Village hall on Thursday.
The event was witnessed by relatives and notable government officials, including Justice Minister Siromi Turaga. This wedding was part of the Ministry of Justice’s outreach program.
At 83 years old, Mr. Vetaukula expressed that they had intended to formalize their union on several occasions but were always interrupted by family obligations and commitments to the community. “We have been together for a long time,” Mr. Vetaukula remarked.
He added, “I worked with the PWD, which required a lot of work and travel across the country. We had been planning this for the past two years, making numerous trips to the government office to arrange for a civil union.”
Mr. Vetaukula was particularly appreciative of the timely opportunity presented to them. “We feel blessed to have the government sector here with us. It’s not every day this opportunity arises. Typically, we would travel all the way to Suva for such a service.”
He concluded with gratitude, noting, “It’s remarkable how providence has arranged this for us. Today, we can honestly say we are blessed.”