Traditionally the most senior political authority on the island, the Fakpure was one of the gagaj ‘es itu’u of the districts of Rotuma, and the convener of the island’s Council of Chiefs. After being elected as the district chief through the traditional processes (see gagaja), the position of fakpure was bestowed on the most senior of these district chiefs, usually the chief whose district had won the most recent war, who also received the privilege of being the first served in the politically charged kava ceremony.
Traditionally, the highest-ranking authority on the island held the title of Fakpure, alongside other high-ranking officials in the districts of Rotuma and as convener of the Council of Chiefs. The position was conferred upon the most senior district chief following a traditional election process, typically the chief whose district had recently emerged victorious in battle.