RKS principal charged Tui Noco dies
Girmitiya group rep Sashi Kiran: Ratu Isoa Damudamu was a great humble chief and a visionary leader
The Tui Noco of Rewa, Ratu Isoa Damudamu, has died. Ratu Isoa was well known for accepting descendants of the Indian indentured labourers, the Girmitiyas, to be drafted into his chiefly clan as Luvedra na Ratu or children of the chief.
The unprecedented move had been hailed as a historic decision in helping to strengthen race relations in the country.
The Gone Marama Bale na Roko Tui Dreketi, Ro Teimumu Kepa, had given her blessings to the event. Ratu Isoa, who is believed to have been in his 70s, has been hailed as a “visionary leader” by Sashi Kiran, spokesperson for the Girmitiya group.
She had worked closely with Ratu Isoa.
She said: “Ratu‘s ancestors had given those that perished in the boat Syria a burial that provided the foundation for the relationships for descendants of indentured labourers with the Vanua.
“In adopting the people as children of the Ratu or Luvedra na Ratu, Turaga na Tui Noco has set the foundation for peaceful relationships for generations to come. “His generosity has not only led to Vanua of Rewa adopting the descendants of Girmitiyas but also the Vanua of Ba to do the same. Many salutes and tributes to such a great humble leader.”
A formal announcement about his death and funeral arrangements is expected to be made soon after all the traditional protocols have been complied with.