As Tonga prepares to elect a new Prime Minister following the resignation of Hon. Siaosi Sovaleni amidst a Vote of No Confidence filed by Dr. Aisake Eke and 10 other MPs, the race for leadership has gained momentum. On Friday, 20 December 2024, the Office of the Lord Speaker of the Legislative Assembly received the […]
Dr. Aisake Eke: A Prime Ministerial Prospect for Tonga’s Prosperity Read More »
With Prime Minister Sovaleni now out, Tonga stands at a critical moment. The pressing question for Parliament is whether re-electing the same individuals responsible for past missteps can deliver the fresh thinking needed to address the nation’s mounting challenges. The Cost of Mismanagement: Lulutai Airline One glaring issue is the nearly $20 million paʻanga of
SAME MINDS CANNOT FIND SOLUTIONS TO PROBLEMS THEY CREATED Read More »
A social media post celebrating the achievements of former Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni’s tenure (2021–2024) warrants closer scrutiny. While his leadership during a turbulent period has drawn praise, a deeper analysis exposes a legacy overshadowed by missed opportunities, sluggish economic development, and political missteps. To truly understand his tenure, we must disentangle rhetoric from reality.
The Tapanekale Housing Project, launched with the noble aim of alleviating extreme poverty in Tonga, was initially approved in April 2023 and officially inaugurated in January 2024. While it represents a commendable step towards providing shelter and hope for families in dire need, questions linger about its execution, transparency, and overall impact. The initiative was
Opinion Piece: Transparency and Accountability Needed for Tapanekale Housing Project Read More »
Kuo fakafisi ‘a Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni mei he lakanga Palemia ‘i he malohi e Fokotu’u Fale Alea ke fetongi ia mei he lakangá. Ka ‘oku ‘ohake heni e palopalema lahi ‘oku toe fakalalahi koe’uhī ko e ma’uhala ‘a e Sea e Fale Aleá, Fakafanua mo ‘ene mahino’i hono fatongiá, kae’uma’a e fale’i fakalao ‘oku ne
‘I HE FA’ITELIHA ‘A E FALE ALEA Read More »
Tonga finds itself at a historic crossroads. The unexpected resignation of Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni during his final speech in Parliament, delivered just before the scheduled vote of no confidence, has thrust our nation into a constitutional dilemma. This unprecedented decision has raised critical questions about the authority and role of a caretaker government and
Opinion: Tonga at a Crossroads: Navigating Leadership Uncertainty with Unity and Resolve Read More »
The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Lord Fakafanua, has officially invited Elected Representatives to submit nominations for the position of Prime Minister Designate. This follows the resignation of former Prime Minister Hon. Hu’akavameiliku (Siaosi ‘Ofa ki Vahafolau Sovaleni) on December 9, 2024. Nominations must be submitted to the Speaker’s Office by 4:30 PM on Monday,
Nomination Period for Tonga’s Prime Minister Designate Opens Read More »
The sudden resignation of Lord Tu’i’afitu, Tonga’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, has unveiled deep-seated tensions between the monarchy, the government, and the sensitive issue of land administration. While the official reasons for his departure remain unclear, it appears to be the culmination of several contentious incidents, including cabinet pressure and royal dissatisfaction. This
The Prime Minister has formally requested an extension from the Speaker to submit his response to the Motion of No Confidence. Initially due by 12 noon on Friday, November 29, 2024, the new deadline is set for 12 noon on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. The motion was originally scheduled to be tabled on Tuesday, December
Speaker Grants Extension Request by Prime Minister Read More »
The storm clouds of political uncertainty loom large over the corridors of Tongan politics as Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Sovaleni braces for a second Vote of No Confidence in as many years. Scheduled for Tuesday, December 3, 2024, this parliamentary showdown has become a litmus test for Sovaleni’s leadership and his government’s capacity to navigate growing
Sovaleni’s Leadership on Trial: Anticipation Builds Ahead of No-Confidence Vote Read More »
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