Maikeli Radua laid to rest at his village in Waikete, Tailevu

The late iconic VitiFM personality, Maikeli Radua has finally been laid to rest in his village of Waikete, Tailevu today.

Radua’s final journey to his village started off with his cortege leaving the Suva morgue at 5am this morning and making a final visit to the Communications Fiji Limited headquarters at Waimanu Road in Suva, where he worked for almost 30 years until his untimely passing last weekend.

The members of CFL then escorted his cortege to his home in Vesivesi Kinoya before making its way to his village in Waikete, Tailevu.

On its way to Radua’s village, people stood on the roadside with placards and banners with farewell messages written on them as they paid their last respects to someone who had been a voice of joy to them on the radio over the past 29 years.

Upon his arrival at the village, his family presented a tabua (whale’s tooth) as i-vakasobu — a solemn gesture of respect and honour traditionally offered to acknowledge someone of great importance.

CFL staff carried Radua’s casket to the village hall, where they presented another tabua as the i-soli ni yago — the formal handover of his body to the village elders — marking the final homecoming of their beloved son, brother, and friend.

Hundreds of people turned up to Waikete Village to pay their last respects to Radua.

While speaking during the church service, VITIFM Content Director Atu Kurumudu says Radua left behind many valuable lessons that the team will continue to follow.

Kurumudu quoted one of Radua’s favourite lines, which he often reminded them of “I love my radio station.”

Semesa Dumaru, Radua’s older brother says his passing has had a significant impact on the media industry.

Dumaru says the family remembers him fondly for his dedication, influence and passion.

Meanwhile, a moment of silence will be observed for Radua before the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua vs Crusaders match at HFC Bank Stadium today.