The tragic loss of 15-year-old Salote Sikiti, who was allegedly murdered in Naqali, Naitasiri, has deeply affected her community, leading to the untimely death of her guardian, Mosese Vosabeci. Villagers attribute his passing to the overwhelming emotional stress he experienced following Salote’s death, which he had been struggling to cope with since the incident.
Vosabeci had raised Salote since she was eight, and according to family members, he was engulfed in sorrow. A village spokesperson revealed that just hours before his death, Vosabeci expressed his heartache during a conversation. Both Salote and her uncle are set to be buried today, marking a day of mourning for the family and the wider community.
Grief swept through Naqali Village as classmates from Salote’s Year 10-04 class at Dilkusha Methodist High School visited to extend their condolences, accompanied by their principal and teachers who presented their i-reguregu. Among them was her close friend, Grace Mocelutu, who shared heartfelt memories of their friendship, recalling Salote’s ever-present smile which spoke volumes about her kind nature.
Reverend Peceli Raduva, Salote’s class teacher, described her as a gentle and compassionate student, highlighting her unique ability to connect with others. Although the news of her passing has been devastating to her classmates and teachers, he expressed hope that her kind spirit has found peace. “Knowing her character, and the heart that she had, I know she is in paradise,” Mr. Raduva remarked.
As the community grapples with this tragic loss, he urged parents to be vigilant and support their children, especially with the festive season approaching, a time often filled with both joy and reflection. This poignant moment serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community support in the face of tragedy.
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