Today, the chiefly island of Bau is installing who is usually the first among chiefs in Fiji – the Vunivalu na Tui Kaba, says Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei president Adi Finau Tabakaucoro.

Originally from Bau Island, Adi Finau said she was elated the decision had finally been made to install Ratu Epenisa Cakobau as the Vunivalu.

“Those who are closely aligned to Mateiwelagi are going directly there and the others are going through the Mata ni Katuba in Bau and others are going through the Tunitoga,” she said.

“The traditional processes is that the family of the mataqali Tui Kaba have agreed that Ratu Epenisa should be installed as the Vunivalu, they have had meetings with regards to the matter.

“And the consensus is Ratu Epenisa should be the Vunivalu hence the installation today.

“We are all looking forward to it and everyone on the island is looking forward to it as we are now assured we have a chief.

“The island has a spirit of unity and celebration.

“It has brought back a sense of pride and making sure today will be a real day of celebration, especially for people that come from Bau.”