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The vanua o Vuda is mourning the loss of Taukei Sawaieke and Fiji’s fifth prime minister, Ratu Tevita Momoedonu.

The 74-year-old chief passed away at the Lautoka Hospital on Thursday after successfully hosting the Ba Provincial Council meeting at the chiefly village of Viseisei.

Ratu Tevita’s eldest son, Inoke Momoedonu, said Tui Vuda Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia and the vanua were traditionally informed of his passing yesterday.

Ratu Tevita served in various senior government positions and was also Fiji’s ambassador to Japan and Korea.

He is survived by his wife, five children, 26 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Ratu Tevita will be laid to rest next Friday.