No Apology - Tui Cakau

No apology
By Verenaisi RaicolaSunday
www.fijitimes.com - December 21, 2008

CAKAUDROVE'S paramount chief, the Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, said endorsement of President Ratu Josefa Iloilo on the People's Charter should be a lesson to chiefs that attended the Bose ni Turaga.
Ratu Naiqama, who declined the invite to attend the meeting at the army camp on Tuesday and Wednesday, said despite the vanua's decisions not to attend the BNT, 125 chiefs out of the 225 invited attended.
"This is the implication of their attendance, the President endorsed the People's Charter and it should serve as a lesson for those people," he said.
Ratu Naiqama said it was disappointing and he would not accept any traditional approach by interim Minister Indigenous Affairs Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.
Ratu Epeli said he planned to visit paramount chiefs who did not attend the meeting to seek their support.
Ratu Epeli said he would use his traditional ties to visit Ratu Naiqama, the Roko Tui Dreketi, Ro Teimumu Kepa, Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and others who failed to turn up at the BNT last week.
The Qaranivalu, Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, and Ro Teimumu declined to comment on the issue yesterday.
Ratu Epeli, at a press conference on Friday, said he would approach the chiefs in their domain.
"I will go and visit them in their headquarters and at their home. This is all part of the process and if they are in Suva and want to come and see me the door is open," he said.
"In my program, there are plans to visit the chiefs and there is no hard feelings. They have the right to make their statement."
Ratu Epeli said the paramount chiefs should have said they were not attending the meeting because of their own reasons and allow other chiefs to decide on their attendance.
He said the invitation went personally to the chiefs and now they needed to go back to the vanua to haul them in to support the charter as they had done.
On how that would work, considering the chiefs had breached the stand taken by attending the BNT, he said: "It would have to be discussed at village level."
He said there was nothing bad in the charter as it had principles about good governance.
"It could be improved on and this is what the chiefs will do with the people.
"They will have a hard time but this is what they will have to do to convey the need to support the charter."
On whether the members of the BNT were disappointed that the election would not be held in March, Ratu Epeli said the election will be decided by the interim Prime Minister, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama, and it was not a cause for disappointment at all.
He said Commodore Bainimarama said six months ago that sthere would be no election in March.
"There were concerns as usually the case but the PM has made a decision for the betterment of Fiji and no one else." Ratu Epeli said.
Ratu Naiqama said Cakaudrove would not entertain any such delegation.

Follow Fijian Protocol-Tui Cakau

Follow Fijian Protocol-Tui Cakau
www.fijivillage.com - 12/11/2008

The paramount chief of Cakaudrove has welcomed the interim government's idea to have a Bose Ni Turaga next month however he stressed that nothing should be forced down on the chiefs of the country.

Tui Cakau Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu said the interim government and especially Interim Indigenous Affairs Minister Ratu Epeli Nailatikau should realize that the chiefs were badly hurt after the sacking of the Great Council of Chiefs members.

Ratu Naiqama said based on that, the interim government should now follow proper Fijian protocol to get the chiefs together for a meeting.



Ratu Naiqama said the interim government should first resolve all matters through Fijian protocol before taking the step to have a meeting with the 221 chiefs of the country.



Meanwhile, as the new Interim Minister for Indigenous Affairs consults various chiefs around the country who remain opposed to joining the new Great Council of Chiefs, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau stressed that convening the GCC is not a priority for the interim government at this stage.

When questioned on when we could see the next GCC sitting to appoint a vice president, Ratu Epeli replied that he does not wish to pre-empt anything, as Fijian protocol is the key.

'There is no such thing as a poor Fijian'

'There is no such thing as a poor Fijian'
By Alisi Daurewa
www.fijitimes.com - Wednesday, October 29, 2008

+ Enlarge this image

An indigenous farmer toils the land to feed her family
In my paternal grandfather's vocabulary, there was no such thing as a poor Fijian, only a lazy one. He died aged 89 in 1971.

One of the biggest challenges faced by agents of change today in their work to reduce poverty and hardship is the dependency syndrome that seems prevalent in the local culture.

Fiji is no different.

I wonder whether it is because we are more at fault for failing to listen carefully to those we target.

We fool ourselves with the notion that we are here to save the world and disregard their own knowledge accompanied by generations of customary practice that may seem different to what we were taught yet embrace also the common principles of human rights and democracy.

As a result, we either unthinkingly or connivingly influence a people into shifting from independent to dependent mode, only to suit our agenda.

Susan George's 'How the Other Half Dies' said "...the West had tried to apply its own conception of 'development' to the third world developing countries working through local elites and pretending that the benefits showered on these elites would trickle down to the less fortunate, especially through the whole application of Western inspired and Western-supplied technology. These methods have not produced a single independent and viable economy in the entire Third World and in fact, were not meant to. 'Development' has been password for imposing a new kind of dependency, for enriching the already rich world and for shaping other societies to meet its commercial and political needs...."

Fiji recently celebrated its 38th year of Independence on October 10.

Given our history of coup de' tat and current events, it is probably more correct to say that we celebrated our shift in dependence from one external power to the other.

Our chiefs confirmed our dependence on Britain in 1874 and we became subjects of Queen Victoria.

In 1970, our political leaders confirmed our dependence on the Western power houses including the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, the Pacific Forum, and treaties that now hang us by the noose as we struggle with our National Charter for Building a Better Fiji.

The world's tune though, that Fiji is dancing to, is getting off-beat as the pyramid of economic power begins to fall starting with America. We face panic.

Whether we are in a position to counter what is to come is unknown but we can at least prepare ourselves by looking within, and, learn from our past.

What I will shortly share is about a people who lived in an era where peace was non-existent and some of the strategies they used to survive. It is about God's hand in a culture that became richer as life progressed from a time to another.

It is about a man born out of a past that gave him the skills to survive in unfamiliar territory, where there was no preferential treatment.

He coped because he did not dwell in self-pity.

He trusted his inner strength. He was not lazy.

My paternal grandfather came from a background of much diversity.

His ancestors left the colo (hinterland) of Viti Levu, a place called Nasaunokonoko, after a dispute that saw their heritage destroyed as kinsfolk fled to other parts of Fiji.

They settled for a while in coastal Vunibau, Serua and later sailed the seas where they saw land and named it Ono.

They finally made Natumua, (meaning our end, our way) in Tavuki, Kadavu their home.

Peace was a Godsend in those days because much of their effort was spent on building territories through warfare. And to maintain power, their people were placed strategically in new found places.

Such as establishing the chiefly household in Yale district and calling it Naivibati, after their people of Naivi.

And, leaving some of their own in Matasawalevu in the district of Nakasaleka whose mataqali is registered, Naivilailai.

Natumua became the centre stage for battle during those volatile days in Nacolase.

Sites that exist today in Natumua bear names like Gagabokola where the captured were soaked in the sea until their bodies became tasty meat to eat.

Nubunisona is where the weak and the sick were left soaking to die, if not from the cold southerly winds, from hunger and as food for bigger fish.

Uluimoala, previously called Uluimakawe, the highest mountain in Tavuki, is testimony to the Moala (of Lau) chiefs' gratitude to Natumua for having helped them in battle.

May I seek your indulgence for this digress.

Sir James Ah Koy's Chinese gene is often credited with his business acumen.

Yet if not for his ancestor of Waisomo's shrewdness, the chiefly house in Tavuki might instead have been elsewhere for Natumua had killed its chief and Tavuki had to seek help from Waisomo.

Waisomo, smart enough to accept Natumua's might knew its weakness for beautiful women. Waisomo mesmerised Natumua with a pretty maiden which cost Natumua's position of power.

So against this background of pain and death, God allowed the unexpected by using the same fearsome Natumua, through Naivibati in Yale, to receive Christianity for Kadavu, brought by the Methodists of Viwa, Bau.

Natumua later gave Nasalia to the Catholics. Much later, one of Natumua's own son, a recipient of the military medal for bravery during the Malayan campaign became the first local head of the Assemblies of God Church in Fiji.

God worked his miracle further.

Natumua built a church in 1979 to accommodate the seven Christian denominations which used the same building according to a roster that was prepared in unison by the people.

This practice remains today.

Natumua is only a very small example of how our forefathers lived with change. There are many others in Fiji, untold, more fascinating and intriguing. The man who said there was no poor Fijian, only a lazy one, left Natumua with his young family in the 1930s for medical treatment in Suva. He decided to remain when he saw what education in an urban school did to his children.

His daughter topped the country in the first qualifying examination for nurses.

She was also the recipient of the Florence Nightingale Plaque awarded to the best all around nurse of the year in the early 1950s.

His other children did equally well.

His only son made it to medical school but forced to join the civil service out of necessity to help feed the family which by then included many relatives.

My paternal grandfather was not at all disempowered by his lack of western education but instead showed his inherent skill of survival in many ways.

One day, on learning that his employer in Toorak refused to pay him the promised rate for some casual work, he took upon payment for himself by carrying off the white man's prized furniture down Amy street and along the way, threatening to throw it down the gulley. He was soon paid his just wage.

On another occasion, he and his kin from Naivibati decided the row of empty beer bottles decorating the graves in Lovonilase would be better used, if sold for cash to feed their families.

They had started uprooting the bottles when up came the Prisons' Officer.

The Naivibati relative on noticing the advancing officer took off with the few bottles already collected.

But grandfather trusted his sixth sense and pretended to restructure the whole grave.

The officer thinking this was very noble, allowed him to continue.

I wonder what these two men would have thought of the $20 million chiefs' building in Nasese, against a background of surrounding squatter settlements.

On another occasion during the second world war, the Fijians who stayed behind were mobilised as handymen for the army. Some of them were 'wharfees' including my grandfather.

They also underwent practice drills of fitness and were grouped according to their provinces.

During a practice march session, on leading Kadavu, my grandfather who could not speak English had to master his instructions in this foreign language.

He was okay with the pronunciation of lefte (left) and raiti (right) but struggled with 'about turn'.

He managed instead with his own Kadavu translation.

My grandfather had little tolerance for chiefs who did not know their role.

On arriving at his district meeting in a Suva house one evening, he found all the senior men sitting in a row at the top end of the room, with a handful of young men, serving them. He told the men sitting at the top that if they did not truly know their place, then he was not going to participate in a meeting with a bunch of idiots.

He walked out.

A painful issue close to my paternal grandfather's heart was being told his only son was not good enough for his daughter-in-law whose family begrudgingly accepted a marriage they believed was beneath her.

This must have rattled his pride. But he dealt with it in a subtle manner.

He made sure his 'susumadrai' grandchildren spoke the language of Natumua in his presence.

To this day, I am forever grateful for his wisdom.

It is said that the strength of a man is never without that of a strong woman.

Yes, my paternal grandfather was able to achieve what he did with the grace and quiet dignity of his prayerful wife.

She was from Wailevu in Ravitaki, nurtured by a Tongan mother from Pelehaki in Tongatapu.

This couple now lie in their graves side by side in the Nasinu cemetery.

Their descendents range from lawyers to architect, surveyor, doctor, engineer, pilot, nurses, missionary, accountants, teachers and soldiers to name a few.

During the 1998 tsunami disaster in Aitape, Papua New Guinea, the Fiji Government sent a senior military officer to assess the damage. The Australian Government through the Royal Australian Air Force recalled one of its senior officer from the Phillipines to travel to PNG to also assess the damage.

These two men are grandsons of the paternal grandfather who once claimed there was no poor Fijian, only a lazy one.

* These are the personal views of the author and not of Partners In Community Development Fiji, where she is the executive director.

The end of a 38-year career

The end of a 38-year career
Monday, October 27, 2008

After 38 years of teaching, Serupepeli Kuroyavaki Kunalagi is calling it a day and plans to spend the rest of his days with the family.
The proud educator has taught at 12 different schools in Fiji and believes the opportunity to help students learn the importance of a good education is rewarding.
Originally from Vunaqoru Village, Naqalimare in Nadroga, Seru wanted to be a policeman when he was younger.
He felt a responsibility to uphold the law as a citizen but when his parents were not keen on the idea, Serupepeli decided to join the teaching profession.
The 60-year old had a hard life growing up especially spending most of his school days away from home.
His father, Timoci Kunalagi, was the resident medical expert in their village while his mother Mere Rokoroko looked after the family.
"When I told my parents I wanted to be a policeman, they were against it because they thought I would put them in jail if they did something bad one day," he said.
"My father was a medicine man and whenever people in the village were sick or needed help, he was able to tell them what was wrong.
"He would even refer them to people in other villages who were experts in using herbal medicine to cure a particular illness.
"My mother spent most of her time looking after us and making sure we had everything we needed."
Third in the family of six, Serupepeli attended primary school at Saint Joan of Ark in Sigatoka.
Because his family lived far from the primary school, Serupepeli had to live with relatives in Yavulo Village which was close to the school.
He completed form six at Ratu Sukuna Memorial. He applied to what was then known as the Nasinu Teachers College, now Fiji College of Advanced Education.
"When I was at Nasinu Teachers College, I received an acceptance letter to attend the University of the South Pacific but it was too late because I was already enrolled at NTC," said Serupepeli.
"I trained for a year in 1970 and got my first posting in 1971 to Bua College. The experience taught me a lot and it was the beginning of a profession I've never regretted.
"In 1974, I was transferred to Navakasiga District for three years. I also spent time four years at Conua District then another three years at Noikoro District.
"In 1986, I taught at Koroinasau Primary and then spent a year at Vatulele District. Other schools I taught at include Naqalimare District, Viwa District, Nokonoko District, Nalagi Primary, Sigatoka Methodist and Yalavou Public."
He was transferred back to Naqalimare District this year until he retired on October 24.
And like any other school teacher, Serupepeli said the profession made him a happy man especially when students are happy.
The father of six children attributed his success as a school teacher to God. He said without the blessings and guidance from above, he would not have been able to carry out his passion efficiently.
"Those thinking of taking up this profession should be honest with themselves so they can teach their students honestly," he said. "I would like to thank God for guiding me especially at the different schools I taught because they were at remote places.
"I plan to spend the rest of my retirement with my family but I will miss teaching because it has helped me in more ways than one," said Serupepeli who lives in Sigatoka.

Taukei Vidilo Title Chiefly battle goes to court

Chiefly battle goes to court
www.fijitimes.com - Saturday, October 25, 2008


THE Supreme Court has granted Ratu Joni Satala special leave to appeal against a Fiji Court of Appeal decision which refused him a chiefly tile.
The Turaga Taukei Vidilo title is before the courts to determine a rightful successor.
The court heard the dispute arose between Ratu Joni and Ratu Viliame Bouwalu following the death of Ratu Malelili Naulivou in 1999.
The FCA ruled the Native Lands and Fisheries Commission decided that further time be given to Ratu Viliame and Ratu Nacanieli to prepare them for the position of leadership.
The commission confirmed the chiefly position properly belongs to them but it is also satisfied that neither of them received sufficient support from the members of the tokatoka Navitua, mataqali Vidilo in Namoli. The commission declared Ratu Malelili should assume the position of Taukei Vidilo but in an acting capacity.
Ratu Nacanieli and Ratu Viliame applied to the High Court for a judicial review on that decision but this was refused. The 1991 decision of the commission stood and Ratu Malelili held the title until his death.
Ratu Nacanieli died during the lifetime of Ratu Malelili and on the latter's death the only claimant from the elder branch was Ratu Viliame. However, Ratu Joni, the eldest son of Ratu Malelili, also claimed the title.
The commission confirmed that since Ratu Viliame is alive, it was correct for him to take leadership.
Granting the appeal, the Supreme Court ruled Ratu Joni is a privy in blood and interest of his father.

Relatives farewell Tui Nadi

Relatives farewell Tui Nadi

http://www.sun.com.fj/ - 10/15/2008
More than 500 people attended Tui Nadi, Ratu Napolioni Naulianano Ragigia Dawai’s funeral at Narewa village yesterday.
Ratu Napolioni Dawai was only 39 and died in Suva after a short illness.
His brother, Apolosi Ratu, 28, said close relatives, friends and the villagers were shocked when they received the news that Ratu Napolioni had died.
Ratu Apolosi said his brother was regarded as a great chief and leader.
Ratu Napolioni Dawai is survived by his wife, Laise Kacilala Dawai and four children, Ratu Luke, Ratu Navula, Ratu Napolioni and Adi Marica.
“Ratu Napolioni Dawai was loved by the villagers because he looked after them and listened to them,” said Ratu Apolosi.
“His passing away has shocked the village and left an emptiness which cannot be filled.
“He was a leader of the people and also served as a board member in Ba Provincial Council, and chairman of the Nadi tikina council.
“He will be missed very much as he was a great person and easy to talk to.”

Chiefly taboo lifted

Chiefly taboo lifted
By ANARE RAVULA
www.fijitimes.com - Sunday, October 12, 2008



THE traditional taboo following the death of the Tui Levuka Ratu Kolinio Rokotuinaceva has been lifted.

This is after the traditional ceremony of vakatarasulu at his village of Levuka Vakaviti.

Close to 1000 people from Ucinivanua in Verata, Saiweke in Gau, Bureonoco in Rewa, Lomanisau in Tokatoka, Tailevu, Mua in Batiki, Nabukebuke in Namosi and villagers within the Tikina Levuka, gathered at the village on Ovalau Island yesterday. The people hold close traditional ties to Levuka Vakaviti.

Also present at the ceremony was Namosi paramount chief Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, who led the delegation from Nabukebuke.

The people of the tikina Levuka could not fish in their traditional fishing grounds or qoliqoli during the 100-night mourning period.

Chiefly household elder Useia Delai said the event was a historical one for the people of Levuka.

People witnessed the gifts of mats, oil, masi and food presented to the tikina Levuka by those with close traditional ties. Ratu Kolinio died at the Levuka Hospital on Ovalau after a short illness in mid-June.

Lomaiviti Provincial Council chairman Ratu Jolame Lewanavua said Ratu Kolinio was a chief who helped all kinds of people irrespective of race, gender and religion.


Lomaiviti people remember high chief

10/12/2008





Close to 400 people from all over Levuka and Lomaiviti gathered at Levuka
Village to commemorate the 100th night vigil of the late Tui Levuka Ratu Kolinio Rokotuinaceva.

Ratu Kolinio died at 72 years of age at Levuka hospital on June 14 following a short illness.

Yesterday, villagers and close relatives gathered at the village celebrating the occasion with traditional gifts presented to representatives of villages in the province.

Lisi Tinivakaca who spoke on behalf of the chiefly family said it was a significant day for the people. She said the death of Ratu Kolinio has brought the people of Levuka closer to the chiefly family.

“I think today is a great day for family ties to be rekindle,” she said.

“This is a day which the people meet and get to know each other and strengthen blood dies.”

Chiefs who were present include Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano and Ratu Tuikitau Cokanauto. Representatives of chiefly villages from Nukuloa, Gau, Solevu, Waido, Nabukebuke, Vunivesi and Qaranikula were also part of the event.

Happy birthday Fiji

Happy birthday Fiji
Reverend James Bhagwan
www.fijitimes.com - Wednesday, October 08, 2008


The long weekend is approaching. Well for you in Fiji anyway. Friday, October 10, being Fiji Day will be a public holiday and apart from the usual official events many will take the opportunity to enjoy an early start to the weekend.

Around the world, however, many Fijians will take the day off or get together at the weekend to renew their friendships and remember their homeland.

The United Kingdom is no exception. The Fiji High Commission will celebrate Fiji Day on Thursday the 9th with a reception complete, according to the coconut cellphone network, with a lovo.

Many Fijians living overseas use this day to get the underground oven, which some times ends up being an over ground or even kitchen oven (depending on relevant laws) fired up. Considering that the Saturday (4/10) Daily Telegraph newspaper announced the arrival of winter with cold and rainy days forecast, those who brave the weather for the sake of tradition will end up being the heroes of the day.

In the desert heat of the Sinai Peninsula, the men and women of 2FIR "Fiji Batt" of the Multinational Force and Observers at the MFO Headquarters at El Gora will have a delayed Fiji Day celebration which includes the different songs and meke performances for guests from among their colleagues at MFO.

This event, complete with lovo and special Fijian gifts for guests, is considered by the organisers to be a way of promoting Fiji and the 2FIR's contribution to tourism.

It will be a special week for me as the Fiji Day reception in London coincides with my older sister Lois's birthday (very convenient as it saves on a party, whichever way you look at it).

The actual Fiji Day of October 10 is marked by a special Evensong service at Westminster Abbey.

I fondly remember my last Fiji Day in London in 2000, when amidst the post May 19 crisis those of us gathered in Westminster Abbey to pray for our nation and our families.

This year again many, both home and away will pray for peace and harmony in Fiji.

Despite the accents and different patterns of speech, the different styles of dress and customs we adopt, we Fijians are a patriotic lot.

And not just when the Flying Fijians (7s or 15s) take the field or Vijay Singh hits a hole in one.

While the debate continues on a common name at home, those of us abroad find ourselves being called or calling ourselves Fijian.

Somehow Fiji Islander, even a brand I used to promote, does not have the gravitas that being a Fijian bestows.

In the days leading up to both my eldest sister's birthday (this year also coinciding with Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement) and Fiji Day on the horizon and being away from home, I have been reflecting on what Fiji Day means to us, given the long and winding road we are trudging along.

As a local television and radio producer, I have covered many Fiji Day events around the country. I find it rather disappointing that of the many re-enactments of the Cession of 1874, I have yet to see a re-enactment of the 1970 Independence ceremony.

While we have countless young Fijian men happily donning cotton-wool beards to play the part of Ratu Seru Cakobau, or suit to portray Sir Hercules Robinson and others present; no one seems to be interested in taking up the role of Prince Charles or Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara.

Even the Instruments of Independence, so formally presented by the Prince of Wales to then Prime Minister Mara have been waylaid.

It seems that we have as much chance of finding it as the US Forces have of finding Osama bin Laden.

So we celebrate our independence by remembering our cession.

The official documents of independence are missing. Is it any wonder why we are in the situation we are in today? We romanticise the past and look suspiciously at the future.

Many will pray and fast on Fiji Day and then ignore the voice of God in their hardened hearts.

Thirty-eight years since ostensibly being given control of its destiny Fiji continues to allow itself to be dictated to by countries whose foreign policy is and will always be the benefit of itself and its people, not ours.

Over the past twenty one years Fiji has given them every excuse and opportunity to do so.

Sun Tzu, the ancient Chinese warrior-philosopher wrote that, "When the leader is morally weak and his discipline not strict, when his instructions and guidance are not enlightened, when there are no consistent rules, neighbouring rulers will take advantage of this." (Sun Tzu, The Art of War, 500BC)

How do we make our nation stronger? How do we as a people, as a country withstand the onslaught of globalisation through the homogenisation of culture, the promotion of individualism, materialism and the consumer mentality, which looks good from a capitalist point of view, results in economic and social disaster as the current financial crises of the United States and Europe plainly show us?

How do we protect our country from moral decay and corrupt leadership?

How do we as a people achieve the task received thirty eight years ago to be a nation that stands united, that honours and defends the cause of freedom ever? How do we march onward together?

I don't have the answers. I wish I did but I don't. Not all of them. But many of us have and continue to seek these answers, trusting in our intellect, the lessons that have been learnt throughout history, the mistakes of ourselves and others and trusting in the grace of God.

Let us share the answers we find. Let us listen to one another. Let us work together as a people, a nation. Let us celebrate our commonality and our desire for peace and brighter future.

That's the best birthday present we could give our country this year.

Happy birthday Fiji.

May the rest of your week and your Fiji Day weekend be blessed with love, light and peace.

* Reverend James Bhagwan is an award-winning radio and television producer and writer. He is currently on leave from the Methodist Davuilevu Theological College where he is a member of the Faculty. All opinions expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily reflect the opinion and policies of the Methodist Church in Fiji or any organisation that Mr Bhagwan is affiliated with. Email: padrejamesgmail.com

Tui Nadi dies

Tui Nadi dies
www.fijilive.com - Wednesday, October 08, 2008


TUI Nadi Ratu Napolioni Dawai passed away last weekend after suffering from a short illness.
Ratu Napolioni was the member of the Ba Provincial Council.
He was also the chairman of the Nadi Tikina Council.
Ratu Napolioni was installed in November 1994, a year after his father Tui Nadi passed away.
A family member who wished not to be named said they were still discussing about the funeral arrangement.
Ratu Napolioni is survived by his wife Laise Kacilala Dawai, his sons Ratu Luke, Ratu Navula, Ratu Napolioni and his daughter Adi Marica.

GCC nominees sent to ministry

GCC nominees sent to ministry
www.fijitimes.com - Wednesday, October 08, 2008


THE Great Council of Chiefs Taskforce team leader, Ratu Josateki Nawalowalo, has received the names of new nominees from the provinces and forwarded them to the Fijian Affairs Ministry.
"We have played our part but the details of who the new look GCC members will be and when they will convene will be made by Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama," he said.
Ratu Josateki said most provinces rejected their submissions so they went to the bose vanua to get the numbers to convene the GCC.
He said Commodore Bainimarama was reluctant to take that path after the provinces rejected the move to submit new names.
"That path would create conflicts so now the GCC would be like this for a while," he said.
Commodore Bainimarama said on radio yesterday there would be no GCC if the provinces failed to cooperate because a number of them had not made any submissions.
He said this raised the issue of the relevance of the institution.
The Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, said the GCC should be reinstated because it was the only institution capable of dealing with crisis situations in Fiji.
Ratu Naiqama said the GCC had shown its colors after previous coups and that their decisions stood out.
"The institution has been there before the Deed of Cession and it is where the chiefs of this country rest issues of serious implications," he said.
Ratu Naiqama said reconciliation could start with the GCC.
The new-look GCC needs 35 names of installed chiefs before it could be convened.
The Rotuma Council of Chiefs also agreed to join the new look GCC after the seven districts gave it their support.

Sere Vakaviti

Sere Vakaviti Kece

Revised and Reprinted
COURTESY OF US QVS Association - 8/6/2008

SONG LIST

AU SA OCA NI’U MATECA TU
BIAU MAI WASA
BIU KO SUVA NIKUA
BOGI NI LOTULEVU
BUNA! NA ISA LEI BUNA!!
NA LOTU MAI NA YATU LAU
CIRI YAWA TU NA VAKANANU
DARU MAI LULULU E NA BARAVI DOMONI
DAUMAKA DINA ADI NA CILA NI VULA
DIVA LESU TU NA GAUNA
DUA GA NA BOGI NI NANUMA TU
E NA DELA NI WAI SILIVA
E NA RUKU NI VULA VOU DE’U TADRA BEKA
E NA VUKU NI LOLOMA
GAUNA CAVA MADA ME NA QAI OTI
ILAGI E TAWA GUILECAVI
ISA AU DIVA MO KILA MADA DEAR NA LOMAQU
ISA AU TAGI E NA NOQU RARAWA
ISA KABANI SA I IKO NA NOQU SENIROSI
ISA LEI KABANI NA VOSA OQO
ISA LEI KO VITI
ISA LEI LIA
ISA LOMAI – ISA NOQU LOMAI
ISA NA NOQU DAULOMANI
ISA NA TADRA
ISA NA YAKAVI NI KIRISIMASI
ISA NOQU LEWA AU DOMONI IKO
KATINI NI OKOTOVA
KIRISIMASI NAMAKI
KO BAU NA YANUYANU
KO I AU BEKA NA GONE VULAGI
KUA NI TAGICAKI AU, NOQU VITI LOMANI
LAGILAGI E NA TAWA GUILECAVI
LINDEN LEA
LIWAVI AU NA TOKALAU
LOVELY FRANGIPANI I ADORE YOU
LUTU SOBU NA YAKAVI
MANUMANU VUKA
MATAI NI GAUNA DARU A SOTA KINA
MATAISUVA
MEDA MAI TAURA TALE
MUDRE MAI NA CEVA
NA CILA NI VULA DARU YABE NO
NA CILA NI VULA SA DAUMAKA
NA KEQU LEWA SA LAIVI TU
NA MATANICIVA AU A VAKAWALETAKA
NA NOQU DODOMO VEI KEMUNI
NA NOQU SENIKAU DAUDOMONI
NA ROSI NI DELANA
NA SENIKAU TALEI VEI AU
NA SENITOA (Noda soqo ni yabaki)
NASAVUSAVU NA VANUA NI LASA
NATEWA NA NOQU KORO NI VASU
NI LUTU NA TEGU NI MATAKA
NI RUI DEDE KO YALI TU MAI VALE
NODARU GAUNA..ISA! LEI!… MARAMA
NOMU SIGA NI SUCU LEI ADI
NOQU SENIBUA QOROI
RATU NACAGILEVU
REWA AU CIBI TU, E VUKUMUNI
ROGO MAI NA KACI NI NOQU MATANITU
RUI TAWA YALANI NA NOQU DODOMO
SA BALE DUA NA NA DURU
SA I LEVUKA GA
SA LAVETI TU, YACA AU DOKA
SA MOCE LEI SISI
SA SEAVU TIKO YANI VAKAMALUA NA KEMU KAMICA
SALUSALU QOKA KIDAVAKI KINA
SEGA NI’U A TADRA
SENIJIALE, NA SENIJIALE
SENIVAU VULA
SERE KEI NASINU
SERE NI DODOMO VEI KEMUNI
SERETAKA NA VEITALATALA
SOBO MARICA NOMU LAKO
SOQO VINAKA
SURETI KEMUNI LEI ADI
TAGIMAUCIA GA NA SENIKAU TALEI
TALANOATAKA MADA NA NOQU BIUTI NEITOU
TALEI NI NOMU I VAKARAU
TAMAQU SA IKO GA
THREE HUNDRED ISLANDS
TOBU TAWA SINAI
TOU MAI LAVETA NA NODA MARAU
TUBU TIKO NA GAUNA LAGILAGI
TUKUNA NA NOQU I LOLOMA
VAKARAU TUBUNA SA TAKALI
VAKARAUBUKA AU BIUTI SUVA
VAKAYATUYATU NI NOQU DODOMO (MERE SAYABA)
VEIBOGI KECE AU MOCE VAKACA
VEISIGA AU DIVA TU
VEIVANUA AU DAUSOKOTA VOLI
VEIYATU YANUYANU


AU SA OCA NI’U MATECA TU

Au sa oca ni’u mateca tu
Me’u bau gade mada mai
Ki na Vanua domoni talei
Ka ni daukacivi au tu mai.

Noqu tadra au kila tu ga
Ko vanua ni marau
Ukutaki lagilagi matalau
Vanua ni veisenikau.

Isa noqu tadra
Ka ni’u daudiva tu
Me’u bau gade made mai ki vei kemuni
Vanua ni Isa Lei

BIAU MAI WASA

Biau mai wasa,
Rairai vinaka.
Ni’u mai vakasarava
Yanuyanu ciri yawa.

Voleka tu yani ki vanua
Ramase na dela ni nuku vula
Selo e rorogo yadua
Vulagi beka e sara vanua.

Korolevu ni kele na waqa
Osodrigi na matasawa
Lululu ni veitalatala
Vakarau na soko wasa.

E kabu tu mai vakayawa
E loma ni wasawasa
Vatulele na yacana
Sa vanua ga ni lasa.


BOGI NI LOTULEVU

Bogi ni Lotulevu me biu ko Suva
Me’u sokota na loma ni wasa bula
Me’u vodoka na vana rua
Kele Yani ena siga ka dua
Mai Yale na nomuni vanua

Na veiqaravi e liu tau mada
Qaloqalovi sevusevu kece sara
Qoroqoro tu ena’i tovo ni lasa
Mai vei ira kecekece sara
Na Mata timi ni Nabua na yacana

Neimami soqo na ka lagilagi
Salusalu era Taubena yani
Salusalu vono ni ucu i matari
Era taubena tu na vulagi
Kenai divi ni dau lutu na yakavi

Veitalatala na ka rarawa
Ni donumaka na siga ni turaga
Au diva tu ke a sega tara
Ke bau dua na soqo vinaka
Mai Yale na vanua turaga

Ni sa moce mai Yale raraba
Bua ni Nabua e vakalasalasa
Na i loloma levu tawayalani rawa
Vei kemuni kecekece sara
Na mata timi ni Nabua raraba


BIU KO SUVA NIKUA

Biu ko suva nikua
Isa kabani mata lomani
Tiko e na kemu lagilagi
Moce yani kabani, moce yani.

Noqu i tautau vei iko senirosi
Mo nanuma na i yaloyalo oqori
Kua ni biu me karoni
Na sikavu sa mai noqu bula voli.

Mataka lailai me’u yadra
Ko Suva sa kabu yawa sara
Diva na matamu ni ko yadra
Mai voroka wale noqu gacagaca.

Isa na levu ni biau
Wele beka mai Suva ko noqui i tau
Diva ni ko dausiro sobu mai
Voleka me’u lade wale ki wai.


BUNA! NA ISA LEI BUNA!!

Buna na isa lei Buna
Nodaru veidomoni
Tekivu sara yani
Ni ko a se vuli nasi voli
Na matamu au diva
E rui totoka sara vakaoti
Me i cavai tu na bula
Ni ko yali senirosi.

Adi na isa my darling
Na cava beka ko bau nanuma
E na noqu mai tagi
Se’u tu taudua e vanua
Ko yaloyalo tiko mai waqa
Sa gole tu me sa mua
Buna na isa lei Buna
Cava tale ko nanuma.

Taura na nomu i lesilesi
Ko sa lesi yani ki Levuka
Ki na nomu koro dina
Mo la’ki senikau ni valenibula
Bau nanumi au mai
E na noqu tu voli e Suva
Au bolea me’u ova yani ki nomu vanua.


CABE NA LOTU MAI NA YATU LAU

Cabe na Lotu mai na Yatu Lau
Vakaitavi me vakatetei
Ka yalo dina ka vosota mai
Sa yaco rawa, tiko sautu

U-u-u oi au iye!
Malo a vosota
U-u-u ki Vuanirewa
Malo a vosota

Veivanua ciri ka kilai
E veivatu dauvosoti mai
Vanua dina ni bula marau
I Lau lomani, ko na divi tu.


CIRI YAWA TU NA VAKANANU

Ciri yawa tu na vakanananu
Wasawasa e vakalidi maravu
Vuso-ni-ua vulavula e na vatu
Mai cakau.

Macawa e karakarawa
O vulavula era ciri yawa
Sa gole na waqa vakalaca
Ki wasawasa

Ke’u manumanu beka me’u vuka
Vuka sara ki na baravi vula
Ki neitou mata-ni-vale e tuba
Qai rauta.

Tamaqu, Nau drau sa rui yawa
Noqu leqa kece tou saga vata
Me qai rawa ni tou tauca vata
Na vuana.


DARU MAI LULULU E NA BARAVI DOMONI

Daru mai lululu e na baravi domoni
Me’u mokoti iko Adi daru regu me i otioti
Vosa kece ko cavuta vakauqeta na yaloqu
Ni ko na dina vei au vu ni noqu marau.

Yalovinaka Isa Adi
Mo nanumi au tikoga
Me daru na sota tale
E na baravi domoni mai keya
Au na waraka tiko
Na nomu vosa vei au
Vakadinadinataka ni sa iko noqu senikau.

Yalovinaka Isa Adi
Mo nanumi au tikoga
Me daru na sota tale
E na baravi domoni mai keya
Daru mai lululu
E na baravi domoni
Me’u mokoti iko Adi daru regu me i otioti


DAUMAKA DINA ADI NA CILA NI VULA

Daumaka dina Adi na cila ni vula
Ni da dauyabe yarua
Isa Lei! Marama cava tale ko nanuma
E noda koro levu oqo ko Suva.

Isa my dear… mo ni taura na ligaqu!
Dreta noqu vinivo balavu
Au na rai kivita na i cavucavu ni yavamu
Sai iko dear na noqu salusalu.

Daumaka dina na nodra roka na Marama
Vulavula kei karakarawa
Ni da dauraica e boiri na matada
Vuni noqu mai moce tatadra.

Ono na kaloko ni lutu na yakavi
Tokara na i sulu ni yaviyavi
Na i sulu ni yabe cake tu ki Turaki
Dui tubera nona kabani.

Ni suka na vude, meda veitauriliga
Me yaga mada na cila ni vula
So e cabe cake tu ki Kaunikuila
Ka so e sisi sobu ki Draiba.


DIVA LESU TU NA GAUNA

Diva lesu tu na gauna
Kena veilasa kecega
Sega ni na yali vei au
Na totoka ni nomu i vakarau

Totolo mai na gauna
Meda mai veirai
Sa rui dredre, me vosoti
Tu veiyawaki oqo

Sega tale, dua e kila
Noqu daunanumi kemuni
Isa e malumu, matau
Taucoko ni nomu i vakarau.

E na dei tu e lomaqu
Nomu sa vakadonuya tu
Sega sara ni’u taqaya
Au sa na nuidei tu ga.


DUA GA NA BOGI NI NANUMA TU

Dua ga na bogi au nanuma tu
E na nuku ramase, baravi lala
Serau e matamu rarama ni vula
Lutu koto na maravu ni yakavi.

E memela tu na i vakatagi
Koula tu na viavia
Drau ni niu e lumisa
Sa na sega tale bogi au nanuma
Bogi ga daru a sota kina.

Vakavatukana tu noqu tadra
E na nuku ramase baravi lala
Serau e matamu rarama ni vula
Lutu koto na maravu ni yakavi.

E memela tu na i vakatagi
Koula tu na viavia
Drau ni niu e lumisa
Sa na sega tale bogi au nanuma
Bogi ga daru a sota kina.


E NA DELA NI WAI SILIVA
E na dela ni wai siliva
Ciri malua koto ko viwa
Kiuva, Kaba e coka
La’ki Toberua sara
Mai cake Moturiki, Verata
E loma yanuyanu turaga
Ki vanua batiri Namara
Viribaiti mai wai vanua talega
E na dela ni wai siliva.

Solo:
Vula e Bau e mosi ni tukuni
Veiyalovi na kemu i rairai
Taladrodro na i boi ni kau salusalu
“Ra lumisa e na i serau ni vula
Isa Bau, e gadrevi ka domoni
Rui qoroi na kemu i serau
Serau lumisa salusalu kei Bau
E na dela ni wai siliva.

Kemu i rogorogo au cibitaka
Ko vueta noqu viti lomani
Mai na rusa ki na bula
Mai na beci ki na cibi
Na lotu ko dolava na sala
Titobu raba i levu na i tavi
Ko colata e na veiveigauna
Ki Bau lomani veigauna ko daudivi
E na dela ni wai siliva.


E NA RUKU NI VULA VOU DE’U TADRA BEKA

E na ruku ni vula vou de’u tadra beka
Yanaraka tu na bogi na i boi ni senikau
E na ruku ni vula au gaganotaka
Me memela mai na domo au diva tu.

Totoka na i rairai ni dela ni wai
Soro kidikidi tu mai na ua lalai
E na ruku ni vula vou de’u tadra beka
Rui totoka oti dina tu vei au.


E NA VUKU NI LOLOMA

E na sega tale na loloma e sivia
Meda oga e vukudra na wekada.

E na vuku ni loloma
Kau mai kina na Lotu
Ki na veiyanuyanu
Eda taukena tu
Na loloma titobu
Dave kina na dra
Yali na buto
Eda rarama tu.

Duri na Kioniferedi
Eda marautaka tu
Kena veiogaoga
Eda cola vata tu
Keda vukei keda
‘Da na vukei dina ga
Koya ga na Tui
Na noda Kalou.

Cabe mai na Yatu Lau
Tete sara yani
Ubi Viti koto e gauna oqo
Lotu tu ko Viti na loloma ga
Yali na buto eda rarama tu.


GAUNA CAVA MADA ME NA QAI OTI

Gauna cava mada me na qai oti
Ni rogici tiko dua na rorogo
Rogo voli mai rogoci tu oqo
E daurogoci tikotikoga.
E se sega mada ni dua na gauna
Bau mudu kina na rorogo ‘qo
Rogo voli mai rogoci tu oqo.
Na drodro tu ni wai ki na tobu.

Ke sa na qai mudu na rorogo ‘qo
Dua ga na ka sa kilai
Koya ni qai sinai vakadua tu
Qai Sinai vakadua tu na tobu.
E se sega mada ni dua na gauna
Bau mudu kina na rorogo ‘qo
Rogo voli mai rogoci tu oqo.
E sa na daurogoci tikoga.

Veisiga kece dauvotu mai
Ki vu-ni-yaloqu na taro oqo
Au a saga, sagai tu oqo
E na dausagai tikotikoga.
Se gauna cava me na qai mudu
Ni rogoci tiko dua na rorogo
Rogo voli mai rogoci tu oqo
Ni drodro tu ni wai ki na tobu.


ILAGI E TAWA GUILECAVI

Ilagi e na tawa guilecavi
E noda veilasamaki
Dina ni rarawa kabani
A nomu yali vakadua yani
Qai oti beka na veilasamaki
Na lasa domoni kabani.

Obo sa qai oti, ra lasa
‘oni e na veibogi
A domoni e na sega ni oti
Dina ni rarawa kabani
A nomu yali vakadua yani
Qai oti beka na veilasamaki
Na lasa domoni kabani.


ISA AU DIVA MO KILA MADA DEAR NA LOMAQU

Veibogi kece au lasa voli kina
Au dau diva na matamu noqu dear
E rui momosi na yaloqu, dear
Vuni kena seva ni ko sega so ni dina,

Isa au diva mo kila mada, Dear, na lomaqu
E na noqu daumate lo voli e matamu
Loloma e lutu mai dela ni veivatu
Lusi mate wale na i loloma e rui vavaku.

E rui balavu na gauna ko lokuca
Vosa yalayala oti vakavuravura
Sa kena dodonu beka ga me’u vakasuka
Tini ki na mate oti kina vakadua.


ISA! AU TAGI E NA NOQU RARAWA

Isa! Au tagi e na noqu rarawa
Ni sa takali na malawa e na rama ni mataka
Ke ko sa na qai kida mai sa na takali
Vakadua yani ka tawa macala
Isa au diva na kabukabu ni voleka na siga
Caucau ni ulu ni vanua kei na tegu e rukuna
Sa na qai macala malua, moce yani.
Au sa na takali vakadua na malawa ni mataka.

Caucau na noqu senikau ko butakoca vei au
Ka’u sa biu tu mai ka lako e sega ni kilai
Ni’u yadra mai ko sa tawa laurai
Isa caucau na noqu senikau
Mo kauta lesu tale mai vei au.
Au tekiduru ka vakamamasu yani
Caucau, noqu senikau ko kauta yani
Kauta lesu mai vei au.


ISA! KABANI SA I IKO NA NOQU SENIROSI

Isa! kabani sa iko na noqu senirosi
Au daudivi iko voli e na veibogi
Na nomu i tovo e ruimosimosi
Vakavutu yalo ni ko yali voli
Oilei! sobo, nanumi au
Noqu senirosi ni’u tagi voli.

Kequ i katalau e veisiga na wai-ni-mataqu
E na noqu daunanumi iko na noqu salusalu
Ke laurai na uto ni tamata
Ko na raica na utoqu sa kaca
Oilei! sobo, nanuma na utoqu sa kaca
E vukumu lei drasa.

Ko Parataisi sa wawa vei kedaru
Noqu senirosi e cava beka sa bau lomamu
Ke sa lomamu me daru vakamau
Yalovinaka mo tukuna vei au
Oilei sobo, ka Parataisi
E na nodaru ke sa lomamu.


ISA LEI KABANI NA VOSA OQO

Isa lei kabana na vosa oqo
Au nanuma beka ni sa tini vakavo
Au san a lako yani e na kena I vakaro
Bau nanumi ira na wekadaru e so

Chorus:

Sivo wale lei sivo wale lei
Sivo wale au mate vei iko lei gonei
Cava sa e rogo na nona vakadre
Me qai kua soti na kena veisei

Isa na noqu koro isa au diva
Na cabe ni vula kei na dromu ni siga
Mai na nuku vula e na kena baravi
Ai yabeyabe ni noqu senirosi

Na codra ni siga e na rara ko ya
Si I Filipe qori me drau sala vata ga
Sere nei kabana me sa tini ga eke
Me na qai yacova na kena vakaipuipure


ISA LEI KO VITI

Isa Lei ko Viti
Na vanua ni marau
Ko cei beka
Na kena i Taukei?

Ratu Cakobau
Turaga qaqa Tui Sau
Sa nodra dina na Vanua
Ko Viti na Vanua ni marau.

Me’u cavuta mada
Viti Levu sa i matai
Toma-ni-Ivi cere sara
Kei na kena yanuyanu lalai.

Ko Vanua Levu
Taveuni kei Cakau
Yatu Lomai kei Kadavu
Ko Yasawa kei na Yatu Lau.


ISA LEI LIA

Isa Lei Lia!… Isa Lei Lia!
Au na soko wasa yani vei iko… Isa Lei Lia.
Isa Lei Lia!… Isa Lei Lia!
Au na soko wasa yani vei iko… Isa Lei Lia.

Au na qara nomu mataniciva
Me nomu i uku-uku veisiga.
Me nomu i sakisaki
Adi Lia …lei Lia.

Nomu leqa koso mai wai
Ko sega ni lamata rawa mai
Ko sevataki wale kina
Lia…… lei Lia!


ISA LOMAI – ISA NOQU LOMAI

Isa Lomai – Isa noqu Lomai
Noqu veiyanuyanu au daucibitaka
Cava me’u na kaya e na kemu i tuvaki
Noqu veiyanuyanu daulomani,

Ovalau, Moturiki, Batiki, Nairai
Koro, Wakaya, Makogai kei Gau.
Druka, au druka ni’u irovi iko tu
Moce Lomai, moce yani.

Dina ni’u yawa – ia, au voleka
Noqu veisiga e nomu tu ga
Divi ni i tovo ni draki mai noda
Moce Lomai – moce yani.


ISA NA NOQU DAULOMANI

Veigauna au gadi ko yali
Au luvuci ka tagi tu ga
Ni’u qara na matamu lei lewa
Dua bulu sa i iko au qara.

Ke ko yali se lako ki lagi
Me’u saga me’u bau rawa ga
Me’u reguca se lululu wale
Me’u saga moni bau kila.

Isa Iva noqu daulomani
Mai vorata ko sa biuti au
Lusi wale na kemu i buluti
Ko tinamu ni a cati au.

Au gadreva na nomu i loloma
Ka mo bau volavola ga mai
Ke ko bese mo tukuna mada
Me’u galala mo sereki au.

Moce mada na rosi ni bogi
Na guna sa mai tini ca
Au loloma vei kemu i karua
Veivosaki ko vakacala.


ISA NA TADRA

Isa oilei na tadra baleti iko
E sega tale ni dua e kila
Dua walega, e vuravura
Vua walega, o au duadua ga.

Isa oilei na tadra baleti iko
Noqu i yau talei duadua
Dua walega e taukena
Dua walega, o au duadua ga.

Ke’u toka duadua
Votu kecekece mai
Noqu veigagano kece
Baleti iko kei au
Oilei na tadra baleti iko
Sega e kila ‘o au duadua ga.

Isa oilei na tadra baleti iko
Vakavouya taucoko noqu bula
Dua walega, e reki voli
Dua walega, o au duadua ga.

Ia na tadra baleti iko
Noqu i nuinui e veigauna
Dua walega, e nui voli
Dua walega, o au duadua ga.


ISA NA YAKAVI NI KIRISIMASI

Isa na yakavi ni Kirisimai
Voleka ni tawase na yabaki
Keitou nanuma tu na lasa lagilagi
E na veiveijakavi mai Naiqaqi

Chorus

Drau sa moce lei Adi
Kei iko Ranadi
Sa i kemudrau na i taukei ni ki
Drau dauvakavuna neimami ravi e na i bili

Isa na yakavi ni Singa ni Sucu
Au daudivi Suva e na cumu
Cecebuya tu na ono lulu
Vata kei na kena i sulu
E na loma ni nodra dui rumu

Era mai taro tu na bameti
Sa sere dali tu na Foresi
Drau laki Siga ni Sucu vei Meti
Au sauma e na vosa rekireki
Drau waraka na i sau ni beseni.


ISA NOQU LEWA AU DOMONI IKO

Isa noqu lewa au domoni iko
Momosi na mataqu ni’u raici iko
Muria na gaunisala na dodomo dina
Tatadra vuni kece e kunei kina
Vavakoso lotu ra masu ka cuva
Marau ni ko dredre au kavoro kina
Domo ni laga sere au marau kina
AVE MARIA.

Dodomo au rui dodomo
Isa au domoni iko dina
Mo mai watiqu daru vau
Ko iko kei au
Ka mo dina taucoko
E na veiveisiga
Veidomoni wai wale e na dina
Solia na ligamu daru sa na vau
Wilika na vosa ni vakamau
Domo ni laga sere au marau kina
AVE MARIA


KIRISIMASI NAMAKI

Kirisimasi namaki, au gadi sobu yani
Lutu sobu na yakavi, rogo na i vakatagi
Au tarogi kabani, naba cava e daumaki
CLUB Naiqaqi.

Kemudou!! Keitou!! Kemudou dou to
Keitou warai ni dro
Mai na noda soqo, yaqona me vakaoqo
E via veiqati ga.

Naiqaqi au sivita, au rogoca na kaila
Au mani gole kina me’u lako ki raica
Caudre tu na kena cina, vale ga nei Sanaila
Rosi piqi, rosi damu e tiko kina.

Au butuka na wakolo, au rogoca e so na domo
Domo dina ga ni reki qai tinia e na mateni
Sa carubi, sa cabolo, ovisa sa wanono
Na mateni e kavoro se baci kavoro.


KATINI NI OKOTOVA

Nai ka tini ni Okotova
Ko na tawa guilecavi
E nai tukuni ni gauna
Kei Viti daulomani
1874
Na yabaki lagilagi
Mai Levuka soli ko Viti
Vei Vikatoria na Ranadi.

Torocake mai ko Viti
Yabaki ciwa ono sa oti
Bisinisi, vuli kei na lotu
E na bula va-Koloni
Sa dodonu meda kaila
Vinaka Peritania
Sa rawa na i tavi
Au sa tamata bula.

Tucake Viti, ko sa tu galala
Oti na veisusugi ko vakarurugi
E na i tovo ni veinanumi
Yavu cava beka meda digitaka
Veilomani kei na Duavata

Ranadi sau era kaci tale
Vei ira na Turaga Bale
Cabe e tolu na i wasewase
Ki Lodoni se i Bolatagane
Era bosebose ka qaqa
Yavutaki ni lewa
Sa rawa na i naki
Eda sa galala tu.

Ravouvou era tadu
Drotini sa veisau
Vakanaulu tu ko Viti
Ki na vuravura vou
Tataunaki na Vanua
Vei kemuni na veiliutaki
Eda qaqa e na i valu
Kei na qito talega
Bolebole tu na noda i tavi
E na veisau oqo. (repeat chorus)


KO BAU NA YANUYANU

Ko Bau na yanuyanu
Na vanua ni salusalu
Mocelolo na kukuwalu
Lagakali na rosi damu.

Cila ni vula bogi vinaka
Vunikau levu ‘ra soqo vata
Na rosi vula na Heilala (sinukakala)
Sa ira era vakatawana.

Dela ni koro mudre vinaka
Na i tikotiko ni Talatala
Ucu i Naceva au vakatabuya
Ka Sau Tabu ni noqu vanua.

Ni’u dau tu tani ‘u vakanananu
Rai ki Bau na yanuyanu
Noqu koro au sakitaka
Na vanua ga ni lasa.


KO I AU BEKA NA GONE VULAGI

Ko i au beka na gone vulagi
Nodra veilasa me’u tukuna yani
Nodra lasa vata kece na gone tagane
Veigauna, veibogi ni sogo tu na vale.

Era duilakolako vaka kabani
So era cabe ka so ki Naiqaqi
Era veikilayaka Io, na nodra i naki
Au kila, era kila, eda kila kecega.

Merewalesi kei Ema e rau totoka
Sa i rau oqori mai Nukualofa
Ko Nukualofa lei na yaca ni vale-ni-yaqona
Rui totoka, rui maqosa, nodrau qaravi yaqona.


Ko Viti Kau, Maraia kei Laisani
Nodratou vale e toka li mai cake
Vale-ni-yaqona e domoni ka rui lagilagi
Era lasa vata kina na gone tagane.

Nodra i tovo kece a rui kilikili
Me vaka kina ko Sainimili
Vale-ni-yaqona dina mai Lomaiviti
Rui suwiti ni’u diriqi me kena i divi.


KUA NI TAGICAKI AU, NOQU VITI LOMANI

Kua ni tagicaki au, noqu Viti lomani
Au solia noqu bula mo sa kauwaitaki
Talei vei au na noqu i tavi
E nomu rokovi kei nomu qaravi

Ciri koto e loma ni wasaliwa
Ceguvi iko na veibiau liliwa
Rama ni siga kei na cila ni vula
Vanua domoni, Vanua ni bula.
Sa tetevi vuravura na kemu i rogorogo
Rara ni qito, buca ni vala, ko dau sega tu ni soro
Kemu i divi marau na reki
Vakarokoroko nomu i tekiteki.

Au tu yawa, au vakanananu
Kina noqu yanuyanu, nuku vulavula vinaka
Qai baravi balavu, dreti au lesu ki noqu yavu
Soli noqu bula ki Vanua Tabu.


LAGILAGI E NA TAWA GUILECAVI

Lagilagi e na tawa guilecavi
E na noda dauveilasamaki
Ka dina ni rarawa kabani
E na nomu yali vakadua yani
Sa qai oti beka na veilasamaki
Se na lasa domoni kabani.

O sobo sa qai oti na lasa
Domoni e na veibogi
Lasa domoni e na sega ni oti
Ka dina ni rarawa kabani
E na nomu yali vakadua yani
Sa qai oti beka na veilasamaki
Se na lasa domoni kabani.


LINDEN LEA

Within the woodlands flow’ry gladed
By the oak trees messy moot
The shining grass blades, timnber shaded
Now do quiver under foot;
And birds do whistle over head
And waters bubbling in its bed
And there for me, the apple tree
Do lean down low in Linden Lea.

When leaves, that lately were a springing
Now do fade within the corpse,
And painted birds do hush their singing
Up, upon the timber tops
And brown leav’d fruits a turning red
In cloudless sunshine over head
With fruit for me, the apple tree
Do lean down low in Linden Lea.

Let other folks make money faster
In the air of dark-room’d towns
I don’t dread a peevish master
Tho’; no man may heed my frowns
I be free to go abroad
Or take again my homeward road
To where for me the apple tree
Do lean down low in Linden Lea.


LIWAVI AU NA TOKALAU

Liwavi au na tokalau, baravi kei Kadavu
Qera tu na maqo, e na dela ni veivatu
Maliwa ni siga ni sucu kei na tawase ni yabaki
Au lakova tu na baravi lomani.

Lutu sobu na karobo, cabolo mai na serevoli
Tou mai ia tou lako vakoro
Marau tawa yalani ko cei me tukuna
Oqori dina na yanuyanu mai na Sauca.

Maravu na wasawasa, sekavula na cakau
Era nunu na cauravou, ki vanua na kaba dawa
Marau ni yabaki, au mai donuya tu
Ko Kadavu na yanuyanu ni sautu.


LOVELY FRANGIPANI I ADORE YOU

Lovely frangipani I adore you
I’ve admired you from when I was young
You’re pretty on my ear
You’re graceful on my hair
Lovely frangipani I adore you.

I can only wish you knew just how I feel
About your bloom, your every pleasant bloom
Lovely frangipani I adore you.

In all our Fijian celebration
Frangipani, salusalu everywhere
With refreshing sight and scent
In the feast and in the dance
Bring joy and peace to our hearts.


LUTU SOBU NA YAKAVI

Lutu sobu na yakavi
Rogo vinaka dina
Na domo ni vakatagi
Era laga sere voli
E na so na baravi
Nuku vulavula qai dinamati.

Era kaci tu yani
Na domo ni wa ni vakatagi
Laga sere lagilagi e na tawa guilecavi
Sega sara ni yali
Se daro na i naki
E na veiyakavi
Baravi lagilagi tagi tu
Na domodra na wa kece ni vakatagi
Lagilagi tawa guilecavi.

MANUMANU VUKA

Manumanu vuka
Vakamarautaki au
Vakacegu ni’u rogoca na domodra
Vakayadrati au e na veisiga vinaka
Na domodra e botea na rarama.

Era vuka…Era tau…Era ro…..era ro
E memla, na domodra
Mai na veitabanikau.

Lutu na sobusobu se na ua mai cakau
Kauta yawa noqu vakanananu
Domo ni manumanu rui matata matalau
Rai yawa qai totoka na rokadra.

Veisau mai na draki era veitosoyaki
Me ganita nodra bula lagilagi
Ceva, vualiku, tokalau ki na Ra
Gauna cava me ra lesu tale mai.

Manumanu vuka, vakamarautaki au
Vakacegu ni’u rogoca na domodra.
Moce noqu manumanu vuka…..


MATAI NI GAUNA DARU A SOTA KINA

Matai ni gauna daru a sota kina
Nomu i vakarau totoka rui kamica
Susi sa i iko ga, Susi sa i au ga.
Kemu i taba ko solia vei au me’u taura
Me vakadei ni vosa ni yalayala ko tukuna
Susi sa i iko ga, Susi sa i au ga.

Au na daunanumi iko tikoga
Veisiga ni ko yali mai vei au
E rarawa na yaloqu ni’u raica
Kemu i taba Susi e rui kamica

Gusumu e kamica, balumu e damusa
Ko dredre mai vei au
Voleka me’u ciba
Susi sa i iko ga, Susi sa i au ga.

Nomu i sulusulu, nomu yabeyabe
Matamuni serau e na kena wananavu
Susi sa i iko ga, Susi sa i au ga.


MATAISUVA
Rui domoni vei au
Na vadugu ni ua mai cakau
Sekavula na vuso ni biau
Mai matalau vei iko kei au.

Uasivi na kemu i rairai
Mataisuva e rogo ka kilai
Ko sili kina ko la’ki yabe mai
Bulabula dina na kemu i rairai.

Isa au diva!
Na biau siliva
Me daru mai sili kina
Waimakere dina
Me vaka na ka ko a diva
Veiniu baravi qai cagina
Na noqu tatadra sa qai dina

Vei sereki ni vuli
Mataisuva e dua nanumi
Biau lelevu sa kemu i divi
Vakasisisi e dela ni kisi.

Moce Mataisuva
Au na talevi iko take vakadua
Ke balavu na gauna ni bula
Mataisuva uasivi duadua.


MEDA MAI TAURA TALE

Meda mai taura tale
E na bogi butobuto
Era veiciriyaki tu na O
Qai vosa cake mai na qase o Momo
I ragone me daru se mai dro.

Daru mai dro mai dro
Ke tamata na i tavoi oqo me vude no
Daru mai dro mai dro
Ke tamata na i tavoi oqo me vude no.

Vude tiko Nana vude tiko Nana
Au na la’ki Tukutuku vei Tata

Sua mai suaki au…sua mai suaki au
Suaka na saresarequ i matau.


MUDRE MAI NA CEVA

Mudre mai na Ceva
Mai na waitui bula
Tubu cake na ua ni Cakau
Mudre mai na Ceva
Vakacegu na yaloqu
Vakavuna na bula vei au.

Mai na Ceva, mai Kadavu
Ciri koto vakayawa mai wai.

Liwa mai, liwa mai
Cagi mai baba Ceva
Nabukelevu e votu yawa tu
Liwa yani na Ceva
Muaidule Latilevu
Noqu suesue au cegu.

NA CILA NI VULA DARU YABE NO

Na cila na vula daru yabe no
Veitalanoa ni gauna sa vo
Au vakananuma nomu waraki au
Ruku ni vunikau, oilei! noqu i tau
Mokoti au noqu i tau,
Mokoti au…… reguci au, lei.

Mokoti au, reguci au, vula ki na O
Caramaka tu nodrau sala sa vo
E kavoro lei vei iko lei gonei
Tauri au, vauci au, me’u dei,
Tauri au, vauci au, lei!

E ruku ni vula daru yabe no
Veitaratara na sote na vinivo
Taura na ligamu tarogi iko yani
Ko sauma e na tagi, dula kabani.
Dula, Buna, kua ni tagi,
Dula Buna, dula Buna, lei.

Ni dromu na vula, daru lesu ne?
Tukuna noqu i tatau vei Vava kei Nene
Au domoni iko au via vauci iko
Mataka daru vau, oilei noqu i tau
Mataka daru vau noqu i tau
Moce Buna mo tadrai au.


NA CILA NI VULA SA DAUMAKA

Na cila ni vula sa daumaka
Au vakamuria na gaunisala
Keirau sota kei kaivata
Kei ira kece na nona i lawalawa.

Tawa guilecavi rawa ga
Na levu ni lasa ni bogi ko ya

Keitou curu tu ki vale e na rere
Me baleta ga na neitou wede
Vovoleka me keitou sese
Ka ni vakaitaukei tu na qele.


NA KEQU LEWA SA LAIVI TU

Na kequ lewa sa laivi tu
Vei kemuni taudua ga
E rui dredre vei kemuni
Au na kerea tikoga

Sega tale sega sara
Me rawai kemuni
Ko I au ga vei kemuni
Au na kerea tikoga

Sega tale sega sara
Me rawai kemuni
Ko I au ga vei kemuni
Me’u nomuni taudua ga.

Siga kecega au nui tu
Vei kemuni taudua ga
Sega e kila na gagadre oqo
Isa noqu taudua ga.


NA MATANICIVA AU A VAKAWALETAKA

Na mataniciva au a vakawaletaka
Au biuta e matadra na vuaka
Veivutuni ni’u qai yadra cecekala
Sa sega tale ni’u kunea rawa.

Isa Lei gauna moni lesu tale mai.
Me’u mai vuli tale vakalailai
Na domo memela e la’ki rorogo mai
Sa moce na wekaqu yalowai.

Au a vuli tiko e na kena gauna dina
Au a vakawelewele voli kina
Vuki tabataba ni’u sa sivia
Rai vuki sa taura na buina.


NA NOQU DODOMO VEI KEMUNI

Na noqu dodomo vei kemuni
Isa Lei buna e rui bibi
Nomu vuli tiko e ka dredre
Dauvakaleqa na nodaru gade
Isa Salote bau nanumi au
Vakatotolo mai me daru mai vau.

O Isa, Isa Lei, na noqu dodomo
Na nomu yanuyanu totoka lei ko Ono
Mai vakavuna tu Buna, me’u via toso
Me’u qalowasa yani ki na nomuni koro.

Na nodaru sota vakalekaleka
Mai vakavuna tu noqu leqa
Noqu cakacaka e veivakaleqai
Mai vakavuna nodaru veirai
Isa lei buna noqu domoni iko
Au nuitaka ni daru na sota tiko.

Ni nomu i tatau, Isa Lei Adi
Nodaru veidomoni me kua ni guilecavi
Daru bau nanuma la mai muri
Daru tiko Vinaka e vu mai na vuli
Moce Salote na noqu senirosi
Sa i kemuni na noqu daudomoni.


NA NOQU SENIKAU DAUDOMONI

Na noqu senikau daudomoni
Senikau dina mai Lepanoni
Au dau nanumi iko me kemu i divi
Senikau dina mai Parataisi.

Isa Lei kabani, daulomani
Sa cava tu beka sa nomu i naki
Au bolea me’u mai moku sara me’u mate
Ke sa daro na nodaru vakawati.

E na so na gauna ni daru dausota
Ko rai mai ko vakagolegole ko sega ni bau vosa
Ko tawa nanuma na nomu buno vata kei na oca
Mai noqu wale voli na yacamu, tamata vakaloloma.


NA ROSI NI DELANA

Ni rogoca saka mada me’u talanoataka
Keimami lasa vata kei na rosi ni Delana
Nodra i tovo e rui daumaka e na neimani lasa vata
Isa na bula eke me ka ni cava?

Adi na cila ni vula au rui dauvakananuma
Kei na tegu e dauqera tu mai Naikadua
Na matamu au daunanuma, Isa noqu rosi vula
Au bolea me’u mate e vukuna.

Sa voleka na gauna moni takali vakadua
Au sa qai vakaloloma ka tauvi vukavuka
E na noqu biuti Suva au rui dauvakananuma
Lesu mai, au mai bole kuna.

Oi me’u mate (mate sara vakadua)
Se me’u kau (me’u kuna bulabula)
Isa noda lasa e rui daumaka
Kena seva ko iko lei Marama
Mo nanuma noda lasa ni warai na ka waca.

NA SENIKAU TALEI VEI AU

Na senikau talei vei au
Na senitoa ni dauserau
Ni kau rai yawa, rairai vinaka
Dautaleitaki e veiyasana.

Gauna namaki e veiyabaki
Gauna ni marau dina vei au
Ni vakasenuqanuqataki
Na senikau dautaleitaki.

Na senitoa sa serau
Senikau dokai sara e daidai
Ni a daubeci ka i tekiteki
Sega e kaya ni kau Vinaka.

Ni se tu mai sa ka dokai
Ka lagilagi kena i rairai
Ni dauseraka sa ka rai yawa
Ka ravuravu na duirokana.


NA SENITOA

Noda soqo ni yabaki
Soqo dautaleitaki
Soqo ni veilasamaki
Veivakamarautaki
Senitoa lagilagi
Senikau taleitaki
Rogo ki na veivanua
Kena daumarautaki.

Soqo ni noda vanua
Era galeleta mai
Mai veiyasa i vuravura
Ni domoni ka kilai
Senitoa ka daubeci
Sa kau talei e daidai
Kau rai yawa kau domoni
Ni se ga ka yali mai.

Noda bogi na i Taukei
Noda bogi talei e daidai
Ni da sota vata kina
Ka mai veivakalasai
Laga sere kei na meke
Kei na veika vou e so
Noda cau ki noda soqo
Adi bogi ni Taukei.


NASAVUSAVU NA VANUA NI LASA

Nasavusavu na Vanua ni lasa
Levu kina na marau levu kina na sautu
Levu na qito bau talega na siwa
Lisiaceva na ucuna au diva.

Naividamu kei Valeci au tiko kina
Vuniyasawa, Verevere, Qaka kei Vunikavika
Nabauto, Tavutikau vata kei Nakama
Na Yaroi na noda koro ni sota vata.

Cila ni vula qai dauvakaciriloloma
Ni maravu tu na toba ko Nawi e ciri e loma
Delai Navaqiqi qai daurairai totoka
Ko Savusavu Bau au daudomona.

Ratu Viliame Qativi ga na kena buli
Na i liuliu ni siwa matai e na vosa muri
Dauvakalasai ira kecega na vulagi
E na kena i divi e veiyabaki.

Ko Inoke Soqoiwasa kei Torika
Mai na nodrau vale keimami dausoqo kina
Isa Josateki sa maumau dina
Ni a yali keimami daudiva.Nasavusavu na vanua domoni
Ko ira na i taukei keimami veiyaloni
Na nodra koro keimami rekitaki kina
E na qito, cakacaka se mokusiga.


NATEWA NA NOQU KORO NI VASU

Noqu koro ni vasu e rui totoka
Veivale tuvaki vakamaqosa
Nuku vula qai cagicagi vinaka
Matalau ni da rai ki wasawasa.

Natewa na noqu koro ni vasu
Talei vei au na yacamu
Ko salusalu ni utoqu
Tawa guilecavi dina mai yaloqu

Ni moce na wekaqu mai Natewa
Ni vosota ni’u vakasereka
Vakayatuyatu ‘qo e lekaleka
Dua na siga au na qai taleva.


NI LUTU NA TEGU NI MATAKA
Ni lutu na tegu ni mataka
Ka ceguva na veisenikau
Era meke mai na manumanu
E vaka ni ra vosa mai vei au.

Na balumu kabani.
Au via katia!
Ni’u sa lila mai au sa rui diva
E vinaka me’u mate, me’u kua ni raica
Na matamu mai cake Isa na i vola siga.

Ko iko na sucu kei na oni
Na matamu lei na ka e tawa kilai
Ko sa viavia beka ni veibuca
Senikau ni veiuciwai.


NI RUI DEDE KO YALI TU MAI VALE

Ni rui dede ko yali tu mai vale
Yali tu ka yali mate wale
Era taro mai vei au na gone
E vei ko Tamaqu, I Nau e vei?

Ko yaco mai ko vosa bolebole
‘Ra talabusese na gone
Au moku, au tagi, dro na moce
E vei ko Tamaqu, i Nau e vei?

Oti na vula mera duimarau
Au vakaveveku voli ko i au
‘Ra vakaloloma na luvei keirau
Sa ca ra bula sa ca vei au.

Ko qai nanuma mo sa lesu mai
Siga rekitaki e daidai
Era marau kece na luvei keirau
Sa tu ko Tamaqu ka tu ko Nau.


NODARU GAUNA..ISA! LEI!… MARAMA

Nodaru gauna Isa Lei Marama
Au na sega ni guileacava
Noqu bula kece,au yalataka
Me’u sa na nomuni tamata.

Noqu yaco yani ki Vatukoula
Au liwavi cagi tu e tuba
Qau na liliwa, na tau-ni-uca
E vukumu noqu rosi vula.

Isa Lei Adi
Sa mai sevataki
Ko a cibi beka
Nomu drotaki
Sa lai moce riki, moce yani.

Sa qai macala dina na yalomu
Vei keitou na lewe tolu
Sa na qai cegu kina vakadua
Koya ko digia mo taura.

Tawa yaga Adi noqu vakayatuyatu
Ni ra cati au na wekamu
Mo kalougata ka bula balavu
Au sa na lesu ki Kadavu


NOMU SIGA NI SUCU LEI ADI

Nomu siga ni sucu
Nomu siga ni sucu lei Adi
Nomu siga ni sucu
Tawa guilecavi Kabani
Noqu i loloma au na qai vakauta yani.

Yaco na gauna
Mo sa tamata bula lei buna
Mo sa na qai yacova tu
Na lasa kece vakavuravura
Yalovinaka Buna Qai toso ga Vakamalua.

Au a nuitaka vei iko
Na gauna dinamati
Vei iko lei Adi
Mo digia me nomu kabani
Noqu i loloma e na qai
Yaco dina ga yani.

Na i olo-olo ‘qori
Ai vakadeitaki ni loloma
Kerei iko kina mo taura ka mo maroroya
Ke na i kuri tu na veilomani
Kei na Duavata.


NOQU SENIBUA QOROI

Noqu senibua qoroi
Divi e gauna kecega
Noqu i tekiteki, noqu salusalu
Noqu senibua qoroi.

Ke bau rawa mo kila noqu qoroi
Ni ko dau se, ko dausobi tu ga
Noqu senibua qoroi
Noqu senibua qoroi

E na veisoqo ni marau
Sevi se tomi ga e ra
Cori mo taubeni, cori mo tokari
Noqu senibua qoroi.


RATU NACAGILEVU

Sa i divi ni vanua ko Nacolase
Na vei turaga bale era liutaka
Nodra duigauna era dui colata
Rogo tu e dai na yacadra.

Au galala li mai na veiliutaki
Ni noqu vanua na Matanitu
Au galala li mai na noqu lotu
Sega ni’u galala mai vei ira.

Sa duri noda vale ni bose levu
Yacana sau na Ratu Nacagilevu
Na vono vanua me bosei kina
Ni kalougata tikoga.

Na soli keiViti era bau saini
E na koro ko Levuka seda kei Viti
Soli na Vanua sa kena madigi
Vei Vikatoria na Kuini.


REWA AU CIBI TU, E VUKUMUNI

Rewa au cibi tu, e vukumuni
Noqu a susugi mai vei kemuni
Vakacokonaki au ki na bula ‘qo
Noqu Bula dredre
Sa vukei au.

Dina e Vanua ca
Luvu wasoma
Au na dauvosota tu
Me’u colata ga
Vakacokotaki au
Ki na bula ‘qo
Noqu Buca dredre
Sa vukei au

Taki vei yaga tu
Na bula oqo
Na lewena e na gu era gu ki liu
Au na vakataka ga
Ni colata tu
Cibitaka ka doka
Na Buca oqo.

RUI TAWA YALANI NA NOQU DODOMO

Rui tawa yalani na noqu dodomo
Isa noqu uto e mai kavoro
Marau wale ni’u tawa yaco vei kemuni
Tavatukituki noqu uto taucoko
E na kena levu ni noqu dodomo
Bulou, au vosota noqu galili
Ni’u domoni kemuni.

Ni sa i au e dua na ka bula
Tu welewelei e na veiveigauna
Au daunanuma na veidomoni
Uasivi duadua
Au taukena na vo ni nomu bula
So vei keda eda dau mai nanuma
Au marautaka ga ni’u taukena
Noqu matakaka.

So na veika dautawasea voli
Dauvakavuna na mate ni veidomoni
Oqori ga na ka au nanuma
Ni’u sega ni kila
Wai ni dodomo e savasava
Nodaru veidomoni rui lekaleka ga
Na noqu dodomo mai vaka na vale lala
Sega e tawana.

Au tekivutaka tale noqu bula
Ni’u sa kunea na kequ i karau
Noqu daulomani uasivi duadua
Taukena noqu bula
Uciwai drodro malumu ni dodomo
Vula, kalokalo ni bula taucoko
Drokadroka dina vei au na dodomo
Ni’u mai kavoro.

ROGO MAI NA KACI NI NOQU MATANITU

Rogo mai na kaci ni noqu Matanitu
Rogo mai na kaci ki na i valu…. Ai valu
Kaci ni noqu vanua me’u yalogu
Ki na i valu me’u sa bole tu
Noqu koro kei na lasa kecekecega
Veitinani kei noqu i tau talega
Sa biu tu ni kaci mai na noqu turaga
Ki na i valu au na lako ga.

Isa lei koi au me’u nanumi
Masulaki tiko (me’u nanumi tiko)
Me yacova ni’u na lesu mai
Sota e na marau, mai loma i Bau.

Roro mai na gauna me’u sa na lako kina
Sa luluvu na lomaqu ni’u sa kila
Sa voleka me’u na biuta noqu Vanua
Lesu mai ko cei e kila
Na rarawa au na sota kaya mai kea
Leqa kei na mate au na lako ki yaba
Au na sega ni okata me dua na ka
Yaca i Viti me laveti ga.

SA BALE DUA NA DURU

Sa bale dua na duru
Yavu ni i taukei
Dauveituberi loloma
E divi nodra gaunaYaga daudokai
E na kawa bula i taukei

Chorus:

Sa na rawa dina li na vakanuinui
E na tara vale vou kena yavu oqo
Na nodra gauna oqo
Na nodra gauna kece
Nodra veiqaravi
Sa baleti iko kei au.

Era sa tu oqoka
Kedra I sosomi
Eda duavata kei ira
Na nodra bula oca
Eda bula kina
Nida sa vosota tu ga

SA I LEVUKA GA

Sa i Levuka ga: Au nanuma tu;
Na kena veilasa kece
Dauvovotu mai e na veiveigauna
Veisiga kei Levuka.

Vei-Vatuloa ka koro makawa
Seva na veibiau kei Viti e Loma
Dauvadugu tu na kena cakau
Lali ni neirau vakamau.

E makare tu, vei au oqo
Na noqu gauna e Levuka
E na noqu tu ka raica lesu
E rui kamica dina vei au.

SA LAVETI TU, YACA AU DOKA

Sa laveti tu, yaca au doka
Yaca ni vanua, soli mai vua
Ai tavi dei, au sa taubena tu
Sau ni vanua, me laveti tikoga

Laga na sere me dei tu
Na noda i bole Sau
Noqu Kalou, noqu Vanua
Me rokovi tikoga
Ai tavi dei, au sa tubena tu
Sau ni vanua me laveti tikoga.

Au sucu me’u dauveidokai
Cola na Turaga, gauna kecega
Ai tavi dei, au sa taubena tu
Sau ni Vanua, me laveti tikoga.

SA MOCE LEI SISI

Sa moce lei Sisi, sa moce!
Kemu i cavu na nomu i golegole.
Mai vakavuna nodra doce
So vei ira era dauvakote
Sa moce lei Sisi sa moce.

Na balu i Sisi e rui dakoba
Dreu cavu vakadrau ni Tavola
So na gauna nida dausota
So e kavoro vakaca na utona
So e tavuki nona qavokavoka.

Na balu i Sisi e rui dravia
Dreu cavu vakadreu ni kavika
Ni daukala tu na siga
Sisi na kemu i cavu dina
Sa moce lei Sisi sa moce!

So na gauna ni da yaco yani ki keri
So e saini mera masi teveli
Ni qai qiri tu na tini
So era tube i kakasivi
E nodra kavoro vei iko noqu Sisi.


SA SEAVU TIKO YANI VAKAMALUA NA KEMU KAMICA

Sa seavu tiko yani Vakamalua na kemu kamica
Vu ni noqu sesewa ni ko rogo vosa mai vei ira
Kauta vakatani na veivosa kece au cavuti kina
Kerekere vakacegu sa moce mo laiva noqu dina.

Sega soti ni yaga na veivosa ko la’ki rogoca mai
Ko a mai katona e yalomu vu ni nomu mai rawai
Gauna ni veitawasei sa roro tiko mai
Baleti iko ga ni ko sa rui yalowai.

Au nuitaka tu me daru na mai tiko marau
Me vakayacori kina na yalayala me daru mai vau
Mo vakanadakuya kece nomu vosa ni tatau vei au
Ni ko sa luvata tani na nodaru mama ni vakamau.

Sa la’ki moce mada yani, isa, lei tamana
Tini dole na gauna ni ko sa mai vakatawayagataka
Ko la’ki tiko vakacegu me qai nomu na kalougata
Au sa na lesu take ki na noqu veilasa makawa.

SALUSALU QOKA KIDAVAKI KINA

Salusalu qoka kidavaki kina
Salusalu qoka ko qoroi kina
Reki taucoko na yalo e vukumu
Sa i iko au dautadra
Sa i iko au dautadra

Taubena qoka, taubeni au
Se mo taubena noqu yanuyanu
Reki taucoko na yalo e vukumu
Sa i iko au dautadra
Sa i iko au dautadra

With these salusalu, we welcome you
With these salusalu we adore you
Everyone tonight is grateful about you
It’s a moment of wishes come true.

Wear these salusalu you wear our hearts
Wear these salusalu you wear our islands
Everyone tonight is grateful about you
It’s a moment of wishes come true.


SEGA NI’U A TADRA

Sega ni’u a tadra
Se me’u bau vakila
Ni na mai yaco tu
Na lasa oqo
Au rai lesuva tu
Noqu bula voli mai
Veirauti tu kei kemuni

Au na daunanuma tu
Na kalougata oqo
Na yaloqu e serau
E vukumuni
Au sa na veisau
Au sa na veisau
Veirauti tu kei kemuni

Au sa kila oqo
Veileqa kecega
Au na dausotava tu
E na gauna oqo
Au rai lesuva tu
Noqu bula voli mai
Veirauti tu kei kemuni.

SENIJIALE, NA SENIJIALE

Senijiale, na senijiale
Bulabula dina gauna kecega
Kena i boi malumu daumuloci au
Sega tani tale, senijiale.

Dauvesuki au
Na kemu i boi
Siga kei na bogi
Dua tu ga
Senijiale, na senijiale
Sega tani tale, senijiale

Rugurugua ka rui malumu
Kemu i boi kamica daumateca tu
Ke ra tu taucoko na veisenikau
Sega au digia, senijiale.

SERE KEI NASINU

Isa noqu koro
Vakarau me’u biuti iko tu
Rairai beka sa na vakadua
Noqu tiko voli vei iko
Bau nanumi au noqu lako voli
Yacamu au na dauvalataka
Mo nanumi au tikoga ka tawa mudu
Mo na masulaki tikotikoga
Sega ni na yali
Daudivi na kemu i rairai
Veibogi ni daucila na vula
Vagagalu tu ko vuravura.

Dina mai muri
Ke’u sa na mani yaco tale mai
Au sa na wili vakavulagi
Vei iko isa noqu koro
Sa na veisau e vuqa na ka
Muria tu na toso ni gauna
Au na tu voli ka vakararai
Nanuma lesu tale nodaru gauna
Cava me’u na kaya
Sa i tovo ni noda bula oqo
Au na cala ke’u na dreti iko tale
Noqu gauna sa sivi yani.

SENIVAU VULA

Senikau cava tale beka sa vo
Me’u seretaka
Senibua, cevuga, makosoi, lagakali
Dauweroki tu ga
Uci, maba, caucau, viavia,
Rosi damu
Era dauseretaki
Senikau cava tale beka sa vo
Me’u seretaka.

Noqu senivau vula
Isa! Noqu senivau vula
Senikau rai yawa
Rui totoka taligoci tu ga
Au seretaki iko
Mo na divi talega mai muri
Noqu senivau vula
Isa! Noqu senivau vula.

E vakaevei au ni ko vula voli
E na wasa Pasifika
Ka cilavi iko voli na siga
Rugurugua, cagi mudre malua
Mai na kena veidelana kei na
Kena baravi veiniu nuku vula.
Isa, mo vosoti au noqu senivau vula
Ni ko tu taudua.

Noqu senivau vula
Ko bula voli e na kedra maliwa
Na veisenikau duiroka kei na vakanomodi
Era dautukuni koya na manumanu vuka
E memela na domodra
Mai na veitaba ni kau
‘Ra raici iko ni ko galili voli.

SERE NI DODOMO VEI KEMUNI

Sere ni dodomo vei kemuni
Kila ni rui bibi
Sere ni dodomo vei kemuni
Adi e rui ka bibi
Au dodomo, domoni kemuni
Adi e rui kabibi
Kila daulomani e ka dina kece
Au domoni kemuni
Kila daulomani e ka dina kece
Au domoni kemuni.

Veivosa kece mo katona kecega
Kua ni rogoca walega
Vosa kece mo katona kecega
Isa lei matakaka
Au masuta, masuta tikoga
Me yacova na gauna ko ya
Kila daulomani e ka dina kece
Au domoni kemuni
Kila daulomani e ka dina kece
Au domoni kemuni.

SERETAKA NA VEITALATALA

Seretaka na veitalatala
Vakamoce ga mai vei au
Na rarawa au mai sota kaya
Gauna cava mo lesu mai vei au?

Mua yani na waqa me’u sa gole
Au mai duri taudua tu
Yaloyalo vei au e na luluvu
Rui momosi na veitawasei.

Ena sega ni yali mai mataqu
Na momosi ni nomu i vakarau
Kusa mai meda mai veisotari
Au tu voli ka’u rui galili
Au nanumi ga mai e na i vola
Me yacova ni’u raici kemuni.

SOBO MARICA NOMU LAKO

Sobo Marica nomu lako
Mosimosi dina vei au
Tovolea tiko me’u vosota
E na sega beka ni rawa

Yalomu kece au kerea

Ena rawa beka se sega
Daru sota tale vakadua

Nomu sa lako vakadua
Isa e vaka na tadra
E na tawa mudu e yaloqu
Noqu daunanumi iko voli

Noqu masu tu e veisiga
Daru sota tale vakadua
Veitalia se evei
Me daru na sota mada

SOQO VINAKA

Soqo vinaka ni da mai sota vakaturaga
Seavu kina na rarawa ni lomada
Gunu yaqona kei na lasa kaivata
Bau cava tu na gunu ni da sota vakaitabavata

Dina ni da duidui yasana
Me nanumi ga na ruku ni varada
Noda i Soqosoqo se Vanua ni noda gunu vata
Dredre ga mo cegu, Isa Lei, Marama.

Guilecava na rarawa kei na oca
Levu veikeda era bula ocaoca
Sega e sivia ni da gunu ka veitalanoa
Vakasinai me rawa na tasi meda dui qai.

SURETI KEMUNI LEI ADI

Sureti kemuni lei Adi
Moni bau gade mai
Kina noqu koro lagilagi
Au galala tu ko i au
Mo ni mai taukeni au
Mo rosi ni vale digitaki.

Na noqu vosa dina qoka ni’u na dina
Mo Taukei ni vale vakadua
Kua ga ni vakasuka, yalomatau
Ni na yaco dina na gauna.

Na veisureti dina qori
Ka sa rui mosimosi
Mai talevi au daudomoni
Sa i iko ga na noqu rosi
Au gadreva lo voli
Mo mai saluwaki ni bogi.

TAGIMAUCIA GA

Tagimaucia ga na senikau talei
Ni vanua rogo ka kilai levu ko Cakau
Salusalu qoroi kei Ulu-i-qalau
Era lili ka ra sala tu e taba ni kau
E a vu sara mai na dua na turaga
Totoka ka mata vinaka, divi ni yabe mai
E a sa qai lewai mera vakatalai
Nodra yali no suidra ga e a qai laurai

E delana ko ya e nodrava la’ki tu
Era tagi ka ra laiva nodra i loloma dei
Oai kadre cake main a senikau talei
Tagimaucia na nodra i loloma dei
E matalia ga na kena i vakarau
Ka ne rawa me se, ewa na Tui Cakau
Sakisaki e dai ni senikau dokai
Matalau ka totoka tu na kena i rairai

Tagimaucia ga na senikau talei
Ni vanua rogo ka kilai levu ko Cakau
Salusalu qoroi kei Ulu-i-qalau
Era lili ka ra sala tu e tabanikau
E ucui ira tu gone turaga ko ya
Totoka ka mata vinaka, divi ni yabe mai
Qai kadre cake main a senikau talei
Tagimaucia na nodra I loloma dei.

TALANOATAKA MADA NA NOQU BIUTI NEITOU

Talanoataka mada na noqu biuti neitou
Me’u sa gole sobu yani ni Nubukalou
Na levu ni lasa, na kasou kei na qoqolou
E valoloma nodra i vosavosa na Bulou.

Drau sa moca ko Akanisi kei Bale
Na noqu i loloma mo drau biliga walega
Ni ko dauvosa, ko daumata dredre
E vovoleka me mai kavoro noqu i ukalele
Au qai diva na kemudrau munemuneke
Sa wacava me daru mai veikeve.

Vakarauwai ni daulutu na yakavi
Me’u taubale cake yani ki Turaki
Me’u veivuke na tubetube bilikani
Me’u waraka me sogosogo tu na vale.

TALEI NI NOMU I VAKARAU

Talei ni nomu i vakarau
Vukivuki e na kena matau
Yalayala vei iko kei au
Me yacova na siga ni vau.

Dua ga na bogi ni nodaru sota
Nomu veiwali kece au katona
Noqu dina kece ko mai butakoca
Ia, mo la’ki maroroya.

So na gauna ni tavuki na lomaqu
E dauvotu vei au na matamu
Vakaciria noqu vakanananu
Sa i iko noqu salusalu.

Au rarawataka nomu sa takali
Dauvunia e lomaqu noqu tagi
Vovotu e mataqu noqu daulomani
Noqu i loloma moce yani.

TAMAQU SA IKO GA

Tamaqu sa i iko ga na noqu i vakarau
Noqu bula au sakitaki au
Raici au ka’u doka
Kaya ni sa i au ga
Vuravura ni rui vou vei au.

Tamaqu, Isa tamaqu
Au na cibitaka tikoga
Sai kemuni na noqu senikau
Vosoti au kina ni’u sakasaka
Isa tamaqu, tamaqu dua bau.

Na yacamu walega au na maroroya tu
Ka me kua ni ko rogorogo ca
E na nomu i vunau ko a vulica vei au
Rawa kina me’u sauma na dinau.

THREE HUNDRED ISLANDS

Three hundred islands in the sun
With warm climate happy people
Only just waiting to welcome
Step from your ship or plane

Fabulous fishing welcomes you
The sport you’ll never miss
Swimming in the blue lagoon
Blue, Blue, Blue
You will explore all of your dream
In all these islands in the sun

Fiji’s a jungle warm, friendly
Miles of unspoilt nature’s beauty
Lush fresh and green, plains, mountains
In all these islands in the sun.

Fijian dishes welcome you
Prawn in lolo, succulent pork
Fresh tropic fruits, pawpaws, mangoes
In all these islands in the sun.

TOBU TAWA SINAI

Gauna cava mada me na qai oti
Ni rogici tiko, dua na rorogo
Rogo voli mai, rogoci tu oqo
E na daurogoci tikotikoga
E se sega mada ni dua na gauna
Bau mudu kina na rorogo ‘qo
Rogo voli mai, rogoci tu oqo
Na drodro tu ni wai ki na tobu.

Ke sa na qai mudu na rorogo oqo
Dua ga na ka sa kilai
Ka yali qai Sinai vakadua tu
Qai Sinai vakadua tu na tobu
E se sega mada ni dua na gauna
Bau mudu kina na rorogo ‘qo
Rogo voli mai, rogoci tu oqo
E sa na daurorogo tikoga.

Veisiga kece dauvotu mai
Ki vuni yaloqu na taro oqo
Au a saga, sagai tu oqo
E na dausagai tikotikoga
E na gauna cava me na qai mudu
Ni rorogo tiko dua na rorogo
Rogo voli mai rogoci tu oqo
Na drodro tu ni wai ki na tobu

TOU MAI LAVETA NA NODA MARAU

Tou mai laveta na noda marau
Vua na Tui na Vunivalu
Meda Vakamudu…muduo Vua
Ni nona kece….kece na lewa

E na veiyabaki, sa oti tu
Sa sivia kece na noda i gu
Ka sa yacova dina tu
Bogi lockuci, bogi oqo.

Sa ka ni marau dina sara vei au,
Ni yaco na bula vei iko kei au
Na wasa ka tu na wasa balavu
Keirau sokota kei Yalo Tabu


TUBU TIKO NA GAUNA LAGILAGI

Tubu tiko na gauna lagilagi
Kamikamica noda dauveilasamaki
Sa qai yaco me’u biuti kabani
Nuitaka ni’u na lesu bula yani.

Isa Oilelei na noqu seniuci
Noqu bula tu na cagi mai muri
O mai ovici au e na nomu i Tutuvi
Koi au beka na kena i ubi.

Rosi walega na bai kei Marata
Ni cabe mai o vula e dela ni wasa
Vakaloloma na delai Kalekana
Ni’u yabeta tu na rara ni vula.

Vakatawase ni yaco na marau
Au mai moce tu oqo e veikau
La’ki tiko vakacegu marau
Na rarama levu e bikai au.

TUKUNA NA NOQU I LOLOMA

Tukuna na noqu i loloma
Vei iratou kece mai vale
Noqu vakanuinui kece sara
Ni’u na lesuvi kemudou tale.

Tiri mai na wai ni mata ni rarawa vutugu
Buca ni valu au mai butuka tu
Rogo mai na domo e memela
Mai na ulu ni noqu Matanitu.

Rai lesuva na yaloqu ka’u tagi
Veigauna au sivia yani
Au masulaka ki Vua mai Cake
Me tou na sota bula tale mai vale.

So na gauna ni’u dauyalomarau
Nomu i vola e dauyaco mai vei au
Au mai wilika tu oqo e veikau
Me valataka na noda Ranadi Sau.

VAKARAU TUBUNA SA TAKALI

Vakarau tubuna mo sa takali
Kalokalo ni lomalagi era duitagi
Cila ni vula, mudre ni cagi me i saluwaki
Nodaru na veitawasei na Isa daulomani.

Na momosi ni yaloqu e kila ko Nau
Noqu i loloma drau na sala vata ena vuso ni biau
A kerea mo bau la’ki nanumi au
Mo vosota ni’u vakaturuma na wai-ni-matamu.

Mai noqu tu na vakaloloma e matasawa
Vakaraica na vuso ni ua e baba ni waqa
Nomu takali Adi Senirosi ki nomu tebara
Marau, dauvakamosi yalo, mai noqu na rarawa.

VAKARAUBUKA AU BIUTI SUVA

Vakaraubuka au biuti Suva
E luluvu na lomaqu au via butuka
Isa na bula ko cei me tukuna
Ni sa i Nukulau na koro ni kukuna
Isa au tagi ka’u vakananuma
E na noqu tu yawa ka via butuka.

Isa au tagi e na noqu nanumi Suva
Ni’u sa tu yawa au via butuka
Isa Kabani na matamu au nanuma
Nuitaka na noqu bula mo ni taura.

Turaki, Naiqaqi era dautukuna
De mani rawa beka na qalo yani ki Suva
Kua ni guileca ‘o na i ka dua
E na tegu domoni e daulutuka
Hili kei Draiba au qai daudiva
E na suka ni lotu me’u gole yani kina.

Isa na gauna au daunanuma
Mai Nukulau na nuku vulavula
Liwa ni cagi na tau ni uca
E vulici na i valu e na veiveigauna
Na yaci i Viti kemami nanuma
Ko ni wele voli na wekada mai Suva.

VAKAYATUYATU NI NOQU DODOMO
(MERE SAYABA)

Vakayatuyatu ni noqu dodomo,
e na nomu mai biuti au.
Josese mai noqu tagane,
nodrau veivosaki kece ko voroka.

Dina beka ni ko sa biuti au,
Noqu gauna sa mai maumau
Sa baleti iko ga daulomani,
Tawa nanuma nodaru veikilai.

Noqu tagane au sa mai rarawa
E na nomu mai vosa walega
Au kania na wai ni mataqu
Ni’u nanuma na gauna oti yani.

Sa i Mere dina beka na yalewa
Ko nanuma mo na mai taukena
Ena tawa guilecavi na matamu
Kei na vosa kecega ni yalayala.

Au sa na vakamoce lei tukana
Vei iko noqu matavinaka
Au na waraka tiko na gauna
Mo taukeni au kina vakadua.

Au loloma kina nomuni Vanua
Sa i Gau ciri sara vakayawa
Ke na i kuri vei koya ko digitaka
Me i sosomi kei Mere Sayaba.

VEIBOGI KECE AU MOCE VAKACA

Veibogi kece au moce vakaca
Ni’u daunanuma lesu noqu vakasami ca
Au na lesu tale vua de’u qai bera
Ki na nona vanua, vanua ni veisenikau.

Ai divi kei Viti noqu daulomani
Momosi na utoqu vei rosi lomani
Au na lesu tale vua de’u qai bera
Ki na nona vanua, vanua ni veisenikau.

Na noqu biuti koya au leqa vakaca
Oqo sa na lesu vakadua ki vua
Au na lesu tale vua de’u qai bera
Ki na nona vanua, vanua ni veisenikau.



VEISIGA AU DIVA TU

Veisiga au diva tu
Rawa beka mo na vakila
Na lomaqu me baleti iko
Iko taudua walega
Isa bau volavola mai
Mo vola e dua ga na ka
Dua sara mada ga na vosa
Au na masulaka dina ga.

Cava li au vesu kina
E na kemu vakanananu
Rawa li me’u na lewa
Me vakataki au
Isa bau Volavola mai
Mo vola e dua ga na ka
Dua sara mada ga na vosa
Au na masulaka ga.

Ke’u mani ogaoga tu
Se’u lako wale voli ga
E na dua dina na gauna
O na basika mai yaloqu
Isa bau Volavola mai
Mo vola e dua ga na ka
Dua sara mada ga na vosa
Au na masulaka dina ga.

VEIVANUA AU DAUSOKOTA VOLI

Veivanua au dausokota voli
Torocake o Labasa e na soli
Au sobu ki vanua e na bogi
Au sota kei iratou na rosi
Balu dravia ka ra qai mata momosi
Sa dina ni vakaitaukei o Vulovi.

Isa so na siga
Au loloma bibi
Ni’u dautadrai kemuni
Noqu i loloma sobu ki boto ni wavu
O Vulovi na vanua ni salusalu.

Na yacadra au na sega ni tukuna
Au na qai talanoataka vakamalua
De na sese kina noqu vakabauta
E na vuku ni tekiteki vulavula
Senijiale kei na senicevuga
Sa moce, say goodbye
Cila ni vula sobu i Drekeniwai
Taladrodro ki na noqu lomanibai
Sa moce Nani kei Adi Lailai.

VEIYATU YANUYANU

Veiyatu yanuyanu
Domoni talei
Veidelana drokadroka
Kei na kena cakau
Uciwai Savu
Na veisenikau
Noqu Vanua, noqu Vanua
Ni marau.

Dau kacivi ira lesu
Luvemu tu yawa
Me ra lesu tale mai
Ki na Vanua ni tadra
Cegu ni yago
Na yalo talega
Noqu Vanua, noqu Vanua
Ni marau.

Veibogi kei Viti
Gadrevi ka domoni
Nai boi ni salusalu
Ka me i lumu ni bogi
Cegu ni yago
Na yalo talega
Noqu Vanua, noqu Vanua
Ni marau.

Fiji Chiefs Seek Church Support

Tui Cakau - Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu

 Fiji Live - 27 August 2008

The heads of Fiji’s three confederacies have aired their concerns on the plight of indigenous Fijians while calling on the country’s largest Christian church to unite with the vanua.

The chiefs, Ratu Epenisa Cakobau, Ro Teimumu Kepa and Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, made their presentation at the Centenary Church in Suva in the presence of more than 700 clergymen from around the country, who were attending the week-long annual Methodist Church conference. The chiefs head the Kubuna, Burebasaga and Tovata confederacies respectively, the three political divisions of traditional Fijian bureaucracy. 

Ratu Epenisa Cakobau

Ro Teimumu Kepa

Ratu Naiqama presented a ‘tabua’ (whale’s tooth) to the outgoing Methodist Church President Reverend Laisiasa Ratabacaca while offering the chiefs’ support of the stand taken by the church earlier in the day to reject the draft People’s Charter, which proposes among other things a common name for all Fiji citizens. 

“Sega ni rawa ni ‘ada duadua na vanua…e sega ni rawa ni ‘ada duadua na lotu. E rawa ga ni da cakacaka vata, veilomani (the vanua and the church can not work alone, they have to work together),” he said.“E sega ni gauna rawarawa oqo. E dodonu me da veilomani. (This is not an easy time. We should unite and love one another).”

Ratu Naiqama said the chiefs of Fiji have been denied a voice with the suspension of the Great Council of Chiefs by the interim Government last year.Then he called on the support of the church on safeguarding the interests of indigenous Fijians, reiterating the chiefs’ strong rejection of the proposed People’s Charter, which he says has been imposed on the people.“E sega ni vakatarai me rogoci na domoi keimami. E da sa kalawaci.“Na kamunaga sa i tatau ni veigauna sa tu mai liu. 

“Me lomani na vanua ko Viti – na vanua ko Kubuna, Burebasaga kei Tovata.“Keimami sa sega sega sara ni duavata, au kuria….sega sega sara ni duavata kei na vakanananu e suguraki mai oqo.”Reverend Ratabacaca accepted the ‘tabua’ on behalf of the Church, saying it was easy to accept when the Tui Cakau (king of the reefs) went down on his knees to present it in the house of God. 

Patiliai Leqa, who acted as Rev Ratabacaca’s herald, said: “This is perhaps the first time for the three high chiefs of the three vanua to come down to us, your people. May you all be blessed”. “Our journey is now complete. May God’s will prevail on our land and may he be our Lord always…,” he said in the Fijian language as other men of the cloth sat in complete silence. 

Church general secretary Reverend Tuikilakila Waqairatu, who yesterday labelled the Charter a “dangerous” document, escorted the chiefs out and later told reporters that the church stood as one with the vanua.“ he GCC is suspended. The only voice in society now to raise issues of the Fijian people is the Church,” he said.

Fiji Paramount Chiefs Raise Rights Worries

Descendants of chiefs who ceded Fiji to Great Britain in 1874 say they are saddened that the 2006 coup has continued to undermine the rights and protection given to the Fijian people under the Deed of Session document. In a statement today, the traditional leaders and heads of Fiji’s three confederacies said they were obliged as moral guardians of Fijian interests to raise some serious implications on a number of issues in the draft People’s Charter. 

Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, Ratu Epenisa Cakobau and Ro Teimumu Kepa issued the statement after calling for unity at the Methodist Church conference today. On the Charter proposal for all citizens be called ‘Fijians’, the chiefs said it is “a gross violation of what the term stands for including its spiritual, cultural and social significance to the Fijian people”. 

They add: “We believe that only when ethnic and cultural differences are recognised and respected that we can work through the balancing of our diverse needs to ensure that the rights of all citizens and ethnic groups are provided for”. 

The chiefs also expressed concern with the attempt to integrate provincial and advisory councils. “We see this as a direct attempt to undermine Fijian development and identity, and all that has been developed since the inception of the Fijian administration,” they said in the statement. “It also runs counter to the provisions of the UN Declaration of the Rights of the Indigenous Peoples which recognises the rights of indigenous peoples to self governance and self determination. “The provincial administration is our essential component of the Fijian administration (under the Fijian Affairs Act) and is linked directly to the Great Council of Chiefs. “These institutions had existed informally long before contact and were recognised by the colonial administrators and they were reconstructed to fit in the colonial machinery of Fijian administration.” 

Ratu Naiqama said these two issues were critical to Fijians and were highly regarded by British monarch Queen Victoria during cession and recently adopted by the UN. He said the issues highlighted have come out of recent consultation and deliberation of traditional leaders and the heads of confederacies.