By Arieta Vakasukawaqa in SuvaThe installation of the Turaga Bale na Vunivalu Na Tui Kaba, Ratu Epenisa Cakobau, clearly indicates that Fiji’s traditional chiefly system still has a strong footing and chiefs still command respect among the country’s citizens. This is the view of Dr Paul Geraghty, the University of the South Pacific’s associate professor of linguistics. Dr Geraghty said even though the previous government had downplayed the role of chiefs, the population at large did not belittle their roles in society. He said given that those who had opposed Ratu Epenisa had passed on, he was the oldest available candidate and one who knew Bau and its people well. Meanwhile, iTaukei Affairs Minister Ifereimi Vasu said the installation of Ratu Epenisa was significant to the reinstatement of the GCC.

Source: New Zealand Herald March 19, 2023 23:49 UTC