‘A significant step towards stability’

THE installation of Ratu Epenisa Cakobau as Vunivalu na Tui Kaba is another significant step towards stability in Fiji after 16 years of being stifled under the previous administration, says Fiji Council of Social Services executive director Vani Catanasiga.

She said some members of the Nausori District Council of Social Services who were part of the Tailevu Provincial Council on the chiefly island of Bau in Tailevu were assisting with preparations.

“Generally, there has been optimism since the results of the elections,” Ms Catanasiga said.

“This is more significant because this is a key role in the way Fiji is governed and in the way, stability and peace in this country can be achieved, and that is in recognising the role that paramount chiefs play in peace and prosperity in this country.

“We also thank Ratu Epenisa Cakobau for his support for community development and his community leadership and volunteerism and his understanding of Fiji what has and the role that he has in a peaceful and a prosperous Fiji.

“It’s good weather in Bau today and they are in full preparation mode. It is going to be a glorious day. It is the day that the Vunivalu na Tui Kaba is going to be installed after 30 years.

“That’s significant and goes towards showing that Fiji continues to be stable and the democracy that we just earned after 16 years is a healthy one and a robust one with our chiefs installed and providing that sense of peace with our people.”

FCOSS had the opportunity to visit Ratu Epenisa at his chiefly residence of Mataiwelagi with the delegation from West Papua.

Ms Catanasiga said they were warmly received in the spirit of Melanesian solidarity.

“In acknowledging that he plays an influential role externally as well, that was taken as a signal by our West Papuan family to get the blessing of the vanua o Kubuna – and that has been given for the aspirations for the West Papua people as Melanesian Spearhead Group full members.”