Na Momo na Tui Vitogo Ratu Wiliame Ratudale Sovasova has passed away.

Ratu Wiliame passed away at his chiefly residence in Vitogo Village, Lautoka, last Tuesday, after a short illness.

He was 73. Paying tribute to the late Tui Vitogo, Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa said she was saddened to hear the passing of Ratu Sovasova.

“The loss of Ratu Sovasova is not only felt by the people of Vitogo, but throughout the Western Division, amongst the Ba Provincial Council and the chiefly houses within Fiji for his immense contributions to the vanua and development,” she said.

She said the late Tui Vitogo, was a quiet and reserved chief who would always accommodate the Burebasaga entourage that made frequent visits within his traditional boundaries.

“I convey the condolences and heartfelt thoughts of the chiefs of the province of Rewa and the Burebasaga Confederacy to the people of Vitogo and the province of Ba on the huge loss, in the passing of the Turaga na Tui Vitogo Ratu Wiliame Sovasova.

“Na Turaga na Tui Vitogo had a heart for the people and his dedication to the responsibility towards the vanua o Vitogo is priceless. The people of Vitogo have indeed lost a true leader and wise counsel.”