In a moment of quiet reverence at the State House this morning, His Majesty King Tupou VI paid his respects to the late former Fiji President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, who is lying in state.
Accompanied by members of his family including Her Royal Highness, Princess Salote Mafilao Pilolevu, the visit was marked by deep emotion, as grieving relatives gathered in solemn silence.
His Majesty stood in quiet tribute before the casket, sharing in the nation’s grief before meeting with Ratu Kamisese Vuna Nailatikau and Adi Litia Cakobau.
Though brief, the King’s visit carried profound significance—honouring a statesman whose lifelong service left an enduring legacy in Fiji and across the Pacific.
The moment was further deepened by the historic royal and family ties between Fiji and Tonga, with links tracing back to King George Tupou II—reflecting the strong and enduring bonds between the two island nations.
Through his paternal grandmother, Adi Litia Cakobau, Ratu Epeli was the grandson of King George Tupou II of Tonga.
This dynastic link made him a vital father figure within the Tongan Royal Family, a role emphasiSed as recently as July 2024 when Princess Salote Mafileʻo Pilolevu Tuita hosted a birthday dinner for the family’s last surviving uncle.
Ratu Epeli, who served as President from 2015 to 2021, had a long career in public service. He was a former Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, later served as Speaker of Parliament, and represented Fiji overseas as a diplomat, strengthening regional ties across the Pacific.
His death marks the passing of a senior statesman whose service spanned the military, Government and regional diplomacy.
Tears flowed freely in Suva this morning as the funeral procession of former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau made its way through the capital to State House.
His casket, draped in the Fiji flag, was carried on a gun carriage that moved slowly along the streets.
A vehicle carrying his immediate family followed — his wife, Adi Koila Nailatikau, and their children, Adi Litia and Ratu Kamisese Nailatikau.
Crowds lined the route from early morning. Some bowed their heads in silence, while others watched through tears as the cortege passed.
Ratu Epeli, who served as Fiji’s President from 2015 to 2021, was widely regarded as a unifying national figure. Before his presidency, he held senior roles in Government and the military, including as Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and later as Speaker of Parliament.
He also represented Fiji on the international stage as a diplomat, contributing to regional and global engagements over several decades.
His passing marks the end of a long career in public service that spanned leadership in the military, government, and diplomacy.
