Ratu Epeli was a respected statesman and a distinguished leader of Fiji and the wider Pacific - Michael Aroi

Members of the Diplomatic Corps presented their i-reguregu to the late former President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, at the State House in Suva.

The delegation was led by the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Michael Aroi, the High Commissioner of Nauru to Fiji.

Aroi conveyed his heartfelt condolences, remembering Ratu Epeli as a respected statesman and a distinguished leader of Fiji and the wider Pacific.

He acknowledged Ratu Epeli’s lifelong dedication to public service, his role in strengthening regional unity, and his contributions to diplomacy and peacebuilding across the region.

He says he was recognised for his commitment to fostering cooperation and stability, with his legacy continuing to resonate across Fiji and Pacific Island nations.

A total of 27 countries were represented under the Diplomatic Corps.

Also part of the delegation were the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua; the Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Baron Waqa; along with representatives from the Diplomatic Corps, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific.

Today, the Golden Manufacturing delegation will present their i-reguregu at 9am, followed by the Yasana Ko Lau and the Vunirewa family at 11am.

The ex-servicemen will present their i-reguregu at 12pm, then the Turaga Na Qaranivalu delegation will present at 1pm, followed by the Burebasaga Confederacy at 2.30pm.

The Vanua of Nalawa in the province of Ra will make presentations at 3pm, followed by the ACS Community at 5pm and finally, the QVS Old Boys at 6pm.

The i-reguregu for Ratu Epeli will conclude tomorrow.

On Thursday, Ratu Epeli’s cortege will depart Oceania Hospital at 6am and will be escorted by ceremonial guards of the RFMF to State House.

Members of the public are encouraged to stand along the route and pay their respects. The cortege of the late former President will pass through Waimanu Road, Mark Street, Usher Street, Scott Street, Victoria Parade, and Queen Elizabeth Drive.

At State House, the late President will lie in state, with members of the public invited to pay their final respects from 8.30am to 8pm.

Attendance will be in controlled groups under managed entry and exit arrangements, and members of the public are required to register with the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.

On Friday, the State Funeral service will be held at Albert Park at 8.30am, followed by the final procession through Suva to Bau Island, where he will be laid to rest at the sacred burial ground, the Sau Tabu.