Commission to settle Bau chief title

Commission to settle Bau chief title

www.fijilive.com - 07 JUN 2008

Bau island chiefs are expected to meet the Native Land Commission next week to discuss matters surrounding the installation of their high chief. The title of Tui Kaba was once held by Ratu Seru Cakobau, the ‘King of Fiji’ who ceded the country to Great Britain in 1874, and is considered by many as Fiji’s highest-ranking traditional chief. Ratu Epenisa Cakobau, one of the contenders for the title confirmed they will meet with the commission next week. He did not specify the reasons for the meet but said that the NLC will play an integral part in accommodating his Kubuna confederacy before and during the installation. The commission, established in 1880, has the power to settle disputes about the head of a matagali (clan). Ratu Epenisa also said that three other contenders, Ratu George Kadavulevu, Adi Samanunu Cakobau, and Ratu Epeli Nailatikau are still very much in the race for the title. “Talks are still ongoing but nothing has been decided yet until we meet the tribunal,” he said.