Ratu Josaia, at the age of 24, was officially installed as the new Tui Sabeto in the Nadi district on Saturday, December 27, 1975. This ceremony took place 100 days after the passing of the previous chief, Adi Josivini Naburenivanua. Ratu Josaia succeeded his grandmother, making him the thirteenth Tui Sabeto.
He is the son of Ratu Viliame Mataitoga, who died in 1962 when Josaia was just 11 years old. Due to his young age at the time of his father’s death, Ratu Josaia was not initially made chief; his grandmother took on the role instead.
Being part of a family with six siblings, Ratu Josaia is the second eldest. His elder sister, however, was ineligible for the title owing to her marriage to a man from outside the chiefly rank. A special mataqali in Sabeto also supported Ratu Josaia’s ascension to the title of Tui.
The traditional installation ceremony was attended by chiefs from the Western Division and included events in both the church and the village. Ratu Josaia received his education at Sabeto Primary School, Jasper Williams School, and Lami Fijian School.
He is married and has a daughter. Tragically, his in-laws, both educators, died when the ship Uluilakeba sank. During the installation ceremonies, Ratu Josaia participated in a traditional vigil, sitting in the chief’s house for four days and nights, where he was supplied with food and water. This vigil concluded on Friday, January 2, 1976, after which he was able to interact with the community.
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