Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has been honored with a chiefly title in Samoa. The ceremony took place yesterday in Leauva’a Village, which is now recognized as Mr. Rabuka’s Samoan home.
He received the ‘tagaloa’alagi’ title, a significant chiefs’ designation in Samoan culture. This title is one of the highest in the country and has historical roots dating back to Samoa’s pre-missionary period. Notably, King Charles III is also expected to be conferred a chiefly title during the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2024.
The ceremony included a brief service led by the Archbishop and the leader of the Catholic Church in Samoa, followed by a traditional kava ceremony. This ritual is customary for formally granting a chiefly title.
In his speech, Mr. Rabuka emphasized unity, stating, “The church leaders who are represented here, we are one. We aspire to continue to demonstrate and show to the world the close kinship we have in our part of the world.”
The day was marked by a strong sense of community, with villagers, from high-ranking chiefs to the youngest members, gathering to honor Mr. Rabuka and his delegation. Banners greeting him with “Bula Vinaka!” and homes adorned with the Fiji flag showcased the warm welcome.
As part of the ceremony, Mr. Rabuka received traditional gifts, including three elei shirts, a Samoan-made tanoa, as well as a fue (fly switch) and to’oto’o (wooden staff), all of which hold deep cultural significance. The fue represents the wisdom of the orator, while the to’oto’o denotes authority.
In closing, Mr. Rabuka expressed his gratitude, saying, “May God’s blessings rest on us forever, I receive this yaqona on behalf of the leaders and the people of Fiji,” followed by a warm “Ni sa bula!”
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