Installing chiefs in Fijian villages is often a sacred and solemn occasion for iTaukei people. Many protocols are usually observed until the final day of installation.
This was true when Ratu Josaia Nabukatavatava was installed as the Tui Sabeto in Nadi 100 days after the death of the former Tui Sabeto Adi Josivini Naburenivanua.
According to an article published by The Fiji Times on January 3, 1976, he had succeeded his grandmother Adi Josivini, thus becoming the thirteenth Tui Sabeto.
Ratu Josaia’s father, Ratu Viliame Mataitoga, died in 1962 when his son was just 11.
Because of his young age, Ratu Josaia could not replace his father so his grandmother was installed as Tui Sabeto.
Ratu Josaia came from a family of six brothers and sisters.
He was the second eldest child but his sister, who was the eldest, could not be made a chief because she married an outsider who did not come from chiefly rank.
A special mataqali (clan) in Sabeto had decided that Ratu Josaia be made chief.
Chiefs from throughout the Western Division attended the traditional ceremony to mark the installation Ceremonies were held both in the church and in the village.
Ratu Josaia was educated at Sabeto Primary School, Jasper Williams School and Lami Fijian School.
At the time he was married with a daughter. Ratu Josaia’s in-laws were both schoolteachers and died when the ship Uluilakeba sank.
As part of the ceremonies, Ratu Josaia had to sit in the house of the chief for four days and nights where food and water were provided for him.
When this chiefly vigil ended, he was able to go out and meet the people.
