A church service held at Albert Park in Suva yesterday paid tribute to the late former president and chief Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, with regional and national leaders gathering to honour a man described as a rare bridge between tradition and modern leadership. The service was attended by King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u Tuku’aho of Tonga, alongside President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, diplomats and members of the public.
Turaga Roko Tui Bau Ratu Timoci Tavanavanua, speaking at the service, framed Ratu Epeli’s leadership as one defined by service rather than authority. “He understood leadership not as power but as service,” Ratu Timoci said, adding that humility and an outward focus were the late statesman’s defining traits. He told the crowd that Ratu Epeli carried himself in a way that constantly reminded others leadership was about caring for people, not elevating oneself.
Ratu Timoci highlighted Ratu Epeli’s commitment to preserving the values and customs of the vanua while ensuring those traditions remained relevant amid contemporary challenges. “But he had the rare ability to balance tradition and modernity,” he said, pointing to a leadership style that combined respect for cultural protocols with a pragmatic approach to governance and public life.
Colleagues and aides recalled Ratu Epeli’s steady temperament in moments of uncertainty. Ratu Timoci noted that those who worked closely with him frequently mentioned his calm, measured approach: he would listen, reflect, and then act with clarity and purpose rather than reacting hastily. That composure, Ratu Timoci said, set the late leader apart in both chiefly circles and public office.
A personal anecdote brought the tone of the service closer to the private man behind the public roles. Ratu Timoci recounted Ratu Epeli’s desire to remain connected to his people, quoting him: “Sometimes I just want to be Ratu Epeli and walk among my people.” The remark underscored a theme that ran through the service — that despite his high office, Ratu Epeli valued personal contact and humility.
The presence of King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u underlined the regional respect afforded to Ratu Epeli, whose public service and chiefly standing drew attention beyond Fiji’s shores. Diplomats and members of the public who attended the service reflected a cross-section of the community, signalling broad appreciation for his contributions to national life.
Yesterday’s church service at Albert Park was the latest public commemoration of Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, centring on the character and approach that colleagues say defined his leadership. Speakers emphasised a legacy built on service, cultural stewardship and an ability to navigate the demands of modern governance while remaining rooted in the vanua.
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