OPINION

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 By Edwin Liava’a I tirelessly tried to do an online transaction yesterday with my local bank account, only to find the hurdles are beyond dire straits with unfavorable exchange rates that made me wonder about the recent milestone of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT). As NRBT celebrates its 35th anniversary on September

In many countries, the practice of selling produce by the basket rather than by weight remains commonplace. While this tradition may have historical roots, it is increasingly clear that it comes with significant drawbacks for both consumers and producers. The time has come to embrace a more modern, equitable approach: selling produce by weight. The

As Tonga approaches a critical decision regarding the future of ground handling services at its airports, the debate centres on whether to renew the contract with Air Terminal Services (ATS) or to support Lulutai Airlines in managing its own ground handling operations. This decision carries significant implications for the safety, security, and efficiency of Tonga’s

From Melbourne to Tonga: A New Chapter BeginsBefore stepping onto Tongan soil, I was a barrister in Melbourne and a member of the Queen’s Counsel. Born in Melbourne and raised in North Queensland, my path led me from Brisbane’s university halls to the courts of Australia, where I spent five years practicing law. After traveling

Monday 13 May 2024: In a speech at the Kumul Leadership Centre in Port Moresby today, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Rt. Hon Winston Peters, outlined a nuanced strategy for the Pacific region that responds thoughtfully to the evolving global security landscape. This discourse, titled “The Pacific family of nations – the changing security outlook,” is

Tongan linguist and scholar Vasalua Jenner-Helu has achieved a remarkable milestone in her academic career. The senior lecturer at the Atenisi Institute has been accepted as a visiting academic in linguistics at the prestigious University of Oxford. This opportunity will allow her to delve into her research on decolonising the Tongan language for a three-month

A beacon of unwavering dedication and tireless advocacy, Mr. Clive Edwards stands as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many. Over forty years ago, as a lawyer championing the rights and aspirations of Tongan residents in New Zealand, his legacy resonates far beyond the courtroom walls.Recently celebrated

In the Kingdom of Tonga, the current political crisis has unfolded, casting a spotlight on a vital but often underappreciated aspect of governance: clear and effective communication. As the saga between King Tupou VI and Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Sovaleni deepens, the absence of a cogent communication strategy has led to widespread speculation, misinformation, and heightened

Recent development highlights need to understand Tonga’s fledgling democracy and the role of Monarch Op-Ed By Tevita Motulalo Yesterday news of His Majesty firing and withholding of high level ministerial portfolios from Cabinet appointees stirred up fervour that His Majesty King Tupou VI is rolling back progress on Tonga’s democracy journey. This is not only