Interim Speaker Invites Nominations for Prime Minister Designate
His Majesty King Tupou VI has appointed Rt Hon Lord Tangi ‘o Vaonukonuka as Interim Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, marking his third tenure in the role after previously serving in 2017 and 2021.
In a notice issued on Monday, 1 December 2025, Lord Tangi invited all elected representatives to submit their nominations for Prime Minister Designate by 4.30pm on Friday, 12 December 2025. Members have also been advised that they are tentatively scheduled to convene on Monday, 15 December 2025 to elect the Prime Minister Designate.
As Interim Speaker, Lord Tangi will preside over proceedings until a Prime Minister Designate is chosen, following the process outlined in the Schedule to the Constitution. He will also oversee the subsequent election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker for the 2025–2029 parliamentary term.
The appointment ensures continuity in the Assembly’s operations during the transition period, with the Office of the Interim Speaker confirming that regular updates will be provided as the nomination and election process progresses.
