Qilaiso - 1st Roko Sau e Lakeba (Kedekede)

The title Sau Mai Kedekede bears its origins from the Tongan word “Hau”, denoting the divine nature of the Tu'i Tonga suggesting the frequent intercourse amongst the chiefly houses of Lakeba and Tonga in pre Christian times. In addition, the title of Sau is considered much older and independent of the title Tui Nayau, as its original holders were from the island of Lakeba (pre- Vuanirewa dynasty). The first recorded holder of the title was Qilaiso and it was through him and his three descendants and successors, that all of southern Lau (Kabara, Fulaga, Ono-i- Lau and their dependencies) was brought into Lakeba’s control and suzerainty. The Sau title eventually merged in time with the title Tui Nayau, and its dual usage commenced in the person of Rasolo. Both titles are now inextricably linked, and heirs succeeding to the title Tui Nayau cannot do so unless recognised and installed as Sau Ni Vanua.

The historical holders of the title of Sau Mai Kedekede are provided below:

Of the Ceiekena Dynasty (16- 17th Century):

Qilaiso

Bativanua

Ginigini

Vuakilau or Fuakilau

Levuka Occupancy of Lakeba (early to mid 1700’s)

Codro

The Vuanirewa Dynasty (mid 1700’s to present)

(title merges with Tui Nayau title in the person of Rasolo)