Ratu Josaia, 24, was inaugurated as the new Tui Sabeto in the Nadi district on December 27, 1975, marking 100 days since the passing of the former Tui, Adi Josivini Naburenivanua. As reported by The Fiji Times on January 3, 1976, Ratu Josaia succeeded his grandmother, becoming the thirteenth Tui Sabeto.
Ratu Josaia’s father, Ratu Viliame Mataitoga, passed away in 1962 when Ratu Josaia was just 11 years old. Due to his young age at the time, he could not assume the role of Tui, and his grandmother took on the position in his place.
Born into a family of six siblings, Ratu Josaia was the second eldest child, but his older sister was ineligible for the title as she married someone outside of the chiefly rank. A specific mataqali in Sabeto also decided that Ratu Josaia was to be named as Tui.
The traditional installation ceremony was attended by chiefs from across the Western Division and took place in both the church and the village. Ratu Josaia received his education at Sabeto Primary School, Jasper Williams School, and Lami Fijian School.
He is married and has a daughter. Tragically, Ratu Josaia’s in-laws, both educators, lost their lives when the ship Uluilakeba sank.
As part of the installation rituals, Ratu Josaia observed a four-day and night vigil in the chief’s house, where he was provided with food and water. This vigil concluded on January 2, 1976, enabling Ratu Josaia to emerge and greet the people.
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