Fiji’s Prime Minister, Rt Hon Sitiveni Rabuka, was officially bestowed the Tagaloa title in a traditional saofai ceremony held at Leauva’a village in Apia, Samoa on Wednesday, 24 October. The event took place shortly after the Prime Minister’s arrival from Fiji via a direct flight.
The saofai ceremony, lasting just over two hours, coincided with the ongoing Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa. Among the attendees was Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister, Hon Tuala Tevaga Faamausili Iosefo Ponifasio, who was present to witness the proceedings.
Leauva’a’s paramount chiefs and orators expressed their support for their new titleholder, performing traditional rituals and blessings. Local villagers also turned out in large numbers, with over 200 people present, including performances and songs in celebration of the Prime Minister’s new honor. Attendees included members of Rabuka’s entourage and supporters from Fiji.
As part of Samoan custom, a monetary gift is traditionally presented to the village during such ceremonies. However, no information was disclosed regarding the amount given by the Fijian Prime Minister to Leauva’a.
