The end of an era: Fiji mourns passing of former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau

Fiji is mourning the loss of one of its high chiefs and most respected leaders.

Former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau passed away at Oceania Private Hospital on Thursday night, aged 85.

Confirmation of his death has come from Ratu Timoci Tavanavua, the Roko Tui Bau.

Across the nation, grief and respect are being expressed for a man who was not only a high-ranking chief and public servant but also approachable, warm, and deeply human.

In Nadala, Nadarivatu, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka halted traditional ceremonies on Friday as a mark of respect. A gesture reflecting the deep reverence felt for Ratu Epeli’s decades of service.

Ratu Epeli was often seen walking the streets of Suva without an escort, stopping to speak with ordinary people, listening as much as he spoke. Those close to him say that was simply who he was.

Ratu Epeli Nailatikau with his wife, Adi Koila, and family, who remember him as a devoted husband, father, and leader. Photo/Supplied

A committed advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness, he used his voice as a UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for the Pacific to break stigma and bring compassion to difficult conversations.

Born into one of Fiji’s most prominent chiefly families, Ratu Epeli was the son of Ratu Sir Edward Cakobau, former Deputy Prime Minister, and the great-great-grandson of Ratu Seru Cakobau, Fiji's only King.

Ratu Epeli was also a grandson of King George Tupou II of Tonga.

Ratu Epeli with Ro Teimumu Kepa, Marama Bale na Roko Tui Dreketi, reflecting the strong bonds of leadership and chiefly family in Fiji. Photo/Facebook/Ro Teimumu Kepa

Tongan Royal Family celebrates Ratu Epeli

In July 2024, Princess Salote Mafileʻo Pilolevu Tuita hosted a birthday dinner for their last surviving uncle and father figure, Ratu Epeli.

In a post on Facebook, Tuita's daughter, Frederica, said: "Ratu Epeli, a cherished cousin of their late fathers, has always been a revered and beloved figure in our family.

"His wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support have made him more than just a relative; he is a true paternal presence to both of them."

Ratu Epeli's ties to Tonga are particularly special. His father, known as “Tungī Fisi,” was the half-brother of the late Queen Salote, creating a close bond between the Tongan and Fijian royal families.

Frederica Tuita said the connection added a rich layer to the family’s shared heritage and made the evening’s celebration all the more meaningful.

Ratu Epeli Nailatikau and his wife, Adi Koila, share close ties with the Tongan royal family, reflecting centuries‑old connections between Bau, Lau, and Tonga. Photo/Supplied

But beyond his lineage, it was his personal journey that defined him. Ratu Epeli rose to Brigadier-General in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, commanding the RFMF from 1982 to 1987.

He then served in diplomacy for nearly two decades, including posts as Fiji’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and ambassador to Israel, Germany, and Egypt.

He went on to serve as President of Fiji from 2009 to 2015, and later as Speaker of Parliament from 2019 to 2022.

Ro Teimumu Kepa, a high chief and the Marama Bale na Roko Tui Dreketi, said Ratu Epeli exemplified true leadership.

“It is with a heavy heart and deep respect that I pay tribute to the Late Turaga mai Naisogolaca, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau,” she posted on social media, noting their close family ties through a shared ancestral lineage.

Ro Teimumu reflected on his accessibility and humanity: “Ratu Epeli exemplified what a leader should be.

Fijians paying respects at a traditional chief’s funeral, a moment that captures the nation’s deep reverence for its leaders and elders. Photo/Fiji govt/Screenshot

"He was a servant leader who did not use his position to get what he wanted. Instead, he showed us how it was done, by walking amongst us in town, queuing in line or even surprised many with his friendly gesture, wave or handshakes.”

She described him as “a pillar of strength and wisdom whose leadership reached far beyond the borders of Kubuna and Fiji as a whole.

"We remember him not only as a noble leader but as a guardian of our nation’s history and formation, a true servant of our people. Ratu Epeli’s legacy of deep compassion and humility has left an indelible mark on all of us.”

Tributes have also poured in from across the country. The Fiji Labour Party posted on Facebook: “Ratu Epeli was undoubtedly a scion of royal lineage.”

Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum described him as “the people's president”, adding, “Ratu Epeli Nailatikau lived his life among his people, not above them.

"We see that in the countless stories coming in from across the country about his personal interactions with everyday people,” FijiLive reported.

Watch Ratu Epeli Nailatikau at the chiefly installation of the Vunivalu/Tui Kaba on Bau Island in 2023.

Ratu Epeli is survived by his wife, Adi Koila Nailatikau, daughter of the late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, and their two children, Ratu Kamisese Vuna Nailatikau and Adi Litia Cakobau.

“In this time of mourning, we stand in solidarity with the Vanua o Kubuna, the Naisogolaca household, his beloved wife, Adi Koila and his two children, Ratu Kamisese and Adi Litia," Ro Teimumu said.

"We share in your grief for the loss of such a man, a husband, a father, a leader whose demise is a loss to the entire nation. Ni Moce Mada Kemuni."

Ratu Epeli Nailatikau’s life was defined by service, humility, and connection - a legacy that has touched Fiji and the Pacific and will continue to inspire future generations.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.