Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has been given the Tagaloa chiefly title in a traditional ceremony held in Leauvaa. The event took place as part of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) celebrations.
Tagaloa Rabuka thanked the people of Leauvaa for welcoming him and referred to the village as “his own” during the ceremony. He also expressed his appreciation to Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister, Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio, and the local chiefs for their hospitality.
Rabuka, who became Fiji’s leader after defeating Frank Bainimarama in the 2022 elections, highlighted the shared history between Fiji and Samoa.
During the ceremony, he planted a tree outside the Catholic Church in Leauvaa as a symbol of his connection to Sāmoa.
The Tagaloa title, rooted in Samoan tradition, signifies a deep connection to leadership and service. By receiving this title, Rabuka is recognised for his commitment to building relationships and his role in Pacific regional cooperation.
