The government has released the final itinerary and public viewing arrangements for the state farewell of the late former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, confirming the cortege will move through Suva streets on Thursday and the state funeral will be held at Albert Park on Friday.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said preparations between Government, the vanua and supporting agencies were progressing well as details were finalised. The funeral cortege will leave Oceania Hospitals at 6:00am on Thursday, April 16, under escort by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces. It will travel along Waimanu Road, Victoria Parade and Queen Elizabeth Drive before arriving at State House, the Prime Minister’s office said.
Members of the public are invited to line the route and pay their respects, Mr Rabuka said, as security and ceremonial arrangements are put in place. Ratu Epeli Nailatikau will lie in state at State House later that morning; public access to view him will be controlled and available from 8:30am to 8:00pm on Thursday, the statement confirmed.
The State Funeral is scheduled for 8:30am on Friday, April 17 at Albert Park in central Suva. Following the service, there will be a final procession through Suva to Bau Landing. From Bau Landing the casket will be taken to Bau Island where traditional ceremonies and the burial will take place, authorities said.
Mr Rabuka appealed for observance of protocols during the events. “We ask all Fijians to continue observing protocols and to participate with respect and unity,” he said, underscoring the combined role of government agencies and customary leaders in managing both public access and the traditional rites that will follow the state ceremonies.
The announced schedule gives families, chiefs, dignitaries and the wider public an opportunity to pay their respects in both formal and traditional settings. The military escort and controlled access at State House aim to balance ceremonial protocol with the expected public turnout as the nation marks the passing of a former head of state.
Further operational details, including road closures and advice for those attending the services, are expected to be issued by relevant authorities ahead of the events to ensure safety and smooth movement of processions.
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