Day 4/PM (16.09.06)

Lord Chamberlain and Ratu Epeli Nailatikau at the Villa Royal Residence 16.09.06

A cold easterly breeze blew in from the sea with the occasional drizzle of rain.  The silence outside the Royal residence was broken only by the wind and vehicles of the immediate members of the Royal Family.   

His Majesty King Siaosi Tupou V invited close family members only to attend dedicatory prayers last night at His Villa Royal Residence in Mataki’eua.  The dedicatory prayer session acknowledged that HRH Prince Jioji Manumataongo ‘Alaivahamama’o ‘Ahoeitu Konftantin Tuku’aho reaching his 21st birthday (17 September 1985).  He is the eldest son of HRH Prince ‘Ulukalala Lavaka Ata and HRH Princess Nanasipau’u Tuku’aho. 

The Lord Chamberlain Hon Fielakepa and two Palace Office staff took up their posts outside the Royal Villa.  Royal family members were received by the Lord Chamberlain on arrival.  They were then led into the formal lounge to be with His Majesty the King and other family members for dedicatory prayers.

The Royal Family prayers were led by the late King’s first cousin Ratu Epeli Nailatikau of Fiji.  Ratu Epeli Nailatikau accompanied the late King in the C130 Hercules from New Zealand.