Prime Minister Confirms his resignation as Minister of Defence
Prime Minister Hon Hu’akavameiliku has finally confirmed his resignation (reported by Tonga Independent bit.ly/4crPLxJ ) and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Hon Fekitamoeloa ‘Utoikamanu, from their roles in His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF) and Foreign Affairs & Tourism, effective March 28, 2024.
In Nuku’alofa on April 4, the Prime Minister Undertakes Cabinet Reshuffle Seeking His Majesty’s Endorsement.
The Prime Minister has strategically left the key portfolios of Minister for Foreign Affairs and His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF) vacant, signalling further discussions are to be made before any decision is made on these two portfolio’s which the King holds considerable influence over.
Concurrently, Dr. Viliami Uasike Latu is set to expand his responsibilities, taking on the Minister for Trade, Economic Development, and Tourism. Meanwhile, the departure of Hon Fekitamoeloa ‘Utoikamanu from the Foreign Affairs and Tourism portfolio to become the Minister of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change, and Communication.(MEIDECC)
Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Announces New Zealand’s James Christopher Lahatte as Anti-Corruption Commissioner. Set to begin his five-year term on July 1, 2024, Lahatte’s appointment comes as the government finalizes the setup of the Anti-Corruption office.
