After nearly 64 years, a new Vunivalu Na Tui Kaba will be installed on Bau Island this Friday.
The chiefly title has been vacant since 1989 after the passing of Ratu Sir George Cakobau.
His son, Ratu Epenisa Cakobau will be installed by the Roko Tui Bau, Ratu Timoci Tavanavanua on tomorrow.
This will also be a momentous occasion as Ratu Timoci’s father, who was the Roko Tui Bau during the last installation in 1959, Doctor Ratu Dovi, was the cup bearer, and presented the yaqona to Ratu George.
The Vunivalu Na Tui Kaba is also the head of the Kubuna confederacy.
The installation will begin with a church service at 10am on Bau Island which will see Ratu Epenisa and his family being prayed over and dedicated to the Lord by senior ministers of the Methodist Church.
Following the service, the traditional ceremonies pertaining to the installation will be held.
The yaqona and tabua presentation will follow and there will be traditional dances.
More than 1,000 people are expected to be on Bau Island to witness this historic event.
Spokesperson of the Vunivalu, Aisea Jack Komaitai says the importance of this installation is that for the past 33 years, the Kubuna Confederacy did not have its chief.
He says this is a wonderful moment for the whole of Fiji when it comes to the iTaukei culture.
Komaitai says they have also requested the students of Adi Cakobau School to perform at the installation ceremony.
Earlier today, the Marama Bale Na Roko Tui Dreketi, Ro Teimumu Kepa presented the Burebasaga Confederacy's sevusevu.
Deputy Prime Minister and National Federation Party Leader, Professor Biman Prasad also visited Bau Island this afternoon.
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