Tomasi Vuetilovoni, the Turaga ni Yavusa o Navuavua of Rakiraki in Ra, passed away on Friday at his home in Suva at the age of 87.
Mr. Vuetilovoni, who served as the Minister for Commerce, Business Development, Investment, Tourism, and Transport, was a prominent figure in both the political and business sectors. He began his government career in July 2000, following a coup d’état, as part of the interim administration.
He was elected to represent the Ra Fijian Communal constituency under the Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua (SDL) party and continued in his Cabinet role until the 2006 military coup ended his political career.
Sakiusa Kaitani, the representative for the Rakiraki district, remembered Mr. Vuetilovoni as an influential leader whose contributions affected the government, Fijian rugby, his community, and the business landscape.
In addition to being the head of his yavusa, Mr. Vuetilovoni also led the Masiratu mataqali (tribe).
Mary Chapman, a former Secretary-General to Parliament, shared cherished memories of Mr. Vuetilovoni, mentioning a humorous incident during the 1997 Rugby World Cup in Toulouse, France, where French officials mistakenly thought she was his spouse, creating a memorable experience.
He is survived by his wife Lennis, their three children Nicola, Tamsin, and St John, daughter-in-law Rebecca, and three grandchildren. His last remaining sibling is Taraivina Madrai.
Traditional funeral proceedings will begin tomorrow at his village in Navuavua, Rakiraki, with cremation scheduled for Saturday at the Rakiraki Lalmitti cemetery.