Ancient rites at dawn yesterday on Nayau Island saw Archbishop Peter Loy Chong anoint Roko Tevita Kapaiwai Lutunauga Uluilakeba Mara—commonly known as Roko Ului—with the title of Tui Nayau, marking a fusion of traditional and religious customs.
Reverend Dr Semisi Turagavou, president of the Methodist Church, placed a traditional masi crown on Roko Ului before presenting a Bible, symbolising divine endorsement. Clan head Akuila Qalo tied a piece of masi around the chief’s right arm, signifying community recognition.
Ceremonial yaqona was then offered in a coconut shell chalice. As Roko Ului drank, he assumed the overlordship of Nayau—a position last held by his father, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, Fiji’s first prime minister who died in 2004. Roko Ului becomes the fourth Tui Nayau.
He is expected to travel to Tubou Village on Lakeba tomorrow for formal installation as Tui Lau, with chiefs from Lau, King Tupou VI of Tonga, and the Māori queen in attendance.
For the people of Nayau, a taboo on their own fishing grounds, in place for 34 years, was finally lifted last week, allowing the community to fully participate in the rituals and celebrations.
Roko Ului, a lieutenant-colonel in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, went into exile in Tonga in 2011 during the Bainimarama regime and later served as an advisor to the Tongan monarch.
He returned to Fiji in March 2023, reinstated and cleared of charges following the 2022 election that ousted Bainimarama. As the only surviving son of Ratu Sir Kamisese, his elevation restores a storied hereditary legacy tied to Lau’s ancient kingships.
Tomorrow’s Tubou festivities will finalise Roko Ului’s position as Tui Lau, officially consolidating his authority across the Lau Islands.
