Letirina Lutu’s dream of a civil marriage became a reality this week when the Justice Ministry facilitated the ceremony. Originally hailing from Vanuabalavu, Ms. Lutu exchanged vows with her long-time partner, Joseva Tuitubou, in a modest event held at Nasau Hall, attended by local villagers and a government delegation visiting Koro Island as part of the ministry’s outreach.
Ms. Lutu recounted the moment when Joseva was present at the village hall and shared the news of the marriage service being offered by ministry representatives. Initially, she thought he was joking, but upon realizing his sincerity, she happily agreed to marry him.
The couple has two children together. Mr. Tuitubou expressed gratitude for the opportunity provided by the ministry, noting that they had initially planned to schedule their civil marriage for December to save money for their trip to the mainland, Viti Levu. He highlighted the financial challenges they faced, stating that transportation costs alone exceeded $200, along with expenses for accommodation during their stay.
Deputy Registrar General Viliame Kubunaceva officiated the civil union and shared that the ministry is expanding its Births, Deaths, and Marriages services to Fiji’s maritime regions and highlands, with the initiative commencing this week.