Ratu Popi Epeli Cakobau (1883–11 October 1936)[1][2] was a Fijian chief and politician. He held the title of Vunivalu of Bau from 1914 until his death in 1936, and was also a nominated member of the Legislative Council.

Popi Seniloli
Vunivalu of Bau
In office
1914–1936
Preceded byPenaia Kadavulevu
Succeeded byTevita Naulivou
Roko Tui of Tailevu Province
In office
1920–1936
Preceded byJoni Madraiwiwi I
Succeeded byIsireli Tawake
Nominated Member of the Legislative Council
In office
 –1936
Personal details
Born1883
Died11 October 1936

Biography

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Born Popi Epeli Senioli, he was the son of Josefa Celua, who was the third son of the Tui Viti Seru Epenisa Cakobau and Litia Samanunu. Ratu Popi inherited the title from his cousin, Penaia Kadavulevu in 1914.

Like his predecessor, Ratu Popi was a parliamentarian in the Legislative Council of Fiji. After his death in 1936, it is argued that his eldest son Tevita Naulivou inherited the title of Vunivalu, after whom it transferred to another son, George Cakobau.

Popi and his wife Adi Torika were Christian converts.[3]

In 1934 he changed his name by deed poll to Popi Epeli Cakobau.[4] In the same year he was made a Justice of the Peace.[5]

References

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  1. ^ Lala Sukuna (1983) Fiji: The Three-legged Stool : Selected Writings of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna, px
  2. ^ Death of Ratu Popi Pacific Islands Monthly, October 1936, p8
  3. ^ 100 years of mission work in Fiji Pacific Islands Monthly, September 1933, p28
  4. ^ Grandson of Cakobau Pacific Islands Monthly, August 1934, p45
  5. ^ Fiji Indian J.P. Pacific Islands Monthly, 21 September 1934
  • S. Berwick, Who's Who in Fiji, Berwick Publishing House, 1990