Silence enveloped the chiefly lawn of Lomanikoro, Rewa, as the remains of Ro Veidovi were carried through the village in a solemn procession. Light rain fell gently as members of the Rokotunimatadreketi clan from Nacokoni, Burebasaga Village, honored this significant moment by wrapping the remains in thick tapa cloth and presenting them to Marama Roko Tui Dreketi, Ro Teimumu Kepa.
After 186 years of absence, the chiefly family of Rewa was finally able to welcome back the remains of their ancestor, a figure notorious for his actions in 1834, which led to the death of an American ship captain and ten crew members. Following his arrest in 1840, Ro Veidovi was held as a prisoner in America until his remains were recently repatriated.
Ro Teimumu expressed her deep emotions regarding the event, highlighting it as a closure of a historic chapter. She shared, “Today marks a complete cycle for Ro Veidovi, as he is finally laid to rest with his family in our chiefly burial grounds of Narusa. After 186 years, he can now rest peacefully.” The mataqali o Vale Levu awaited the return of the entourage led by the Rokotunimatadreketi, which included Fiji’s Ambassador to the United States.
Ro Veidovi, born in 1802, was a son of the Roko Tui Dreketi and known for his fierce nature in warfare. John Degory, the Deputy Chief of Mission at the American Embassy, noted that their involvement in the repatriation process began in 1993. “One of the most respectful things is to bring back home the dead, and I am glad to be part of this truly solemn occasion which signifies the strong partnership between Fiji and the USA,” he said. Degory emphasized the potential to build upon this partnership and offered a blessing in memory of Ro Veidovi.
The yavusa Burenivalu, to which Ro Veidovi belonged, holds the traditional role of guarding the chiefly grave-site at Narusa. Member Peniasi Qoloutawa conveyed the deep sense of responsibility they felt in conducting traditional rites for Ro Veidovi, who is said to have had 55 wives. He also expressed that while the early generations did not speak extensively about Ro Veidovi, it was well-known that he was a chief in the 1800s, with stories of his life remaining somewhat unclear.
This poignant event not only commemorates the legacy of Ro Veidovi but also reinforces the ties between Fiji and the United States, highlighting the importance of remembering history and honoring those who have come before us.
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