Contributor:
J V R Prasada Rao
Ambassador to APCOM and former Special Envoy of the UN Secretary General
It is with profound regret that I heard the news of the passing away of Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, former President of Fiji and a dear friend for the last three decades.
Ratu Epeli had been a stalwart and the tallest among the Pacific leaders, not just in his stature but in the qualities of leadership which he displayed in all these years, occupying various positions in the Government, finally the highest office of President of his country.
But the high offices he held never stopped him from identifying with the common people not just in Fiji but the entire Pacific region. And the most important agenda he identified himself was the problem of HIV/AIDS which started impacting the region. It was during that time that I came into contact with him as the Director of UNAIDS Asia Pacific regional office. We developed instant rapport and he appreciated the work UNAIDS had been doing in advocating for prevention and care services to be extended to the communities most impacted by the epidemic.
Later, as the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary General, I met him a few times and sought his leadership in advancing the AIDS response and his approach had always been positive.
Ratu Epeli was a man of the masses and had endeared himself to even the most downtrodden among the people of his country.
He will always be remembered for his dynamism, passion and positive approach in addressing the problems of his people.
My sincere salutations to the departed Soul and heartfelt condolences to his family members.
Bangaluru, India, 27 March 2026
