For many in Suva, the late former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau was not only a statesman, but a familiar and humble presence at Albert Park.
As the nation continues to mourn his passing, those who crossed paths with him in everyday life are sharing quiet, heartfelt memories of a man they knew beyond his title.
Padmini, owner of the Albert Park Restaurant, recalls seeing him often.
“I remember the late President very well. He used to come around here to the restaurant and would eat here,” she said. “He would be running around the park in the morning, or sometimes in the afternoon.”
Her voice heavy with emotion, she described the loss as deeply personal.
“I feel very sad for him. May he rest in peace.”
She added that beyond his public role, he was known for his compassion and service.
“He was a community worker for people living with HIV and AIDS, for community services. I never heard anything bad about him. He was so good and nice.”
Another regular at the park, Avinesh Prasad, shared similar sentiments, recalling moments that reflected the late President’s humility.
“Sometimes I meet him here at Albert Park. Sometimes we have breakfast together,” he said. “He’s a very nice person and would interact with you in such a way that you would forget he actually holds a high position.”
These simple, personal encounters now stand as lasting memories of a leader who remained grounded, approachable, and deeply connected to his people.
At a place where he once walked, ran, and shared conversations, the absence of Ratu Epeli Nailatikau is deeply felt, not just as a national loss, but as the passing of a familiar face who made an impact in the smallest, most human ways.
Tomorrow the same venue will host the late President’s state funeral, which is expected to draw hundreds of Fijian, before he will be laid to rest in the Sau Tabu on Bau island, Tailevu.
As tributes pays in, the ordinary people remember Ratu Epeli as the People’s President.
The post A leader among the people: Ratu Epeli remembered at Albert Park appeared first on Fiji One News.
