Tonga Finally Moves with the Times: Government Services to Stay Open During Lunch Hours
For years, Tonga has operated on an outdated model where government offices shut down for lunch, leaving citizens waiting in frustration. But now, in a much-needed shift toward efficiency, Prime Minister Dr. ‘Aisake Valu Eke has announced a bold initiative to keep essential government services open throughout the workday—including the traditional lunch break.
The move, set to take effect on Monday, February 3, 2025, aligns Tonga more closely with international standards, where public services remain available during business hours to accommodate working citizens. Under the new directive, key government agencies such as the Ministry of Finance, Treasury Services, Ministry of Revenue and Customs, and Immigration Services will now be open during lunchtime, making life easier for those traveling from Hahake and Hihifo who often face delays.
This decision signals a growing awareness that modern governance requires flexibility and responsiveness. For too long, Tonga has operated under rigid schedules that inconvenience the public rather than serve them. While this change may seem minor, it represents a step toward a more efficient and citizen-friendly government.
With Chief Executive Officers now tasked with reviewing additional services to include in this initiative, the hope is that Tonga’s public sector will continue to evolve—perhaps with future reforms like staggered work shifts, extended office hours, or digital services.
For a country often seen as trailing behind in administrative modernisation, this is a welcome step forward—one that will make everyday life smoother for Tongans while ensuring that government services work for the people, not the other way around.
