POLITICS

In a strategic response to the ongoing political unrest in Tonga, New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister, Winston Peters, along with his delegation, is set to arrive in Tonga tonight for a swift yet pivotal visit, returning tomorrow. This brief engagement underlines the urgency and significance of the visit, highlighting New Zealand’s dedication to fostering democracy […]

The Tonga Independent has received reliable confirmed reports that His Majesty King Tupou VI, in a recent Council decision, has revoked the appointments of the Foreign Minister and has removed the Defence Ministry portfolio from Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni. Historically, matters of state have required meticulous coordination between the Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister, and

Tonga is facing a precarious balancing act with its substantial debts to China. After a decade of delays, renegotiations, and unsuccessful discussions, the government has started repaying its hefty loans to China. As Tonga heads towards repayment deadlines in the next five years, its debt burden is set to skyrocket, placing it among the highest

The Tongan government’s expenditure of more than $2 million on the “renovation” of the old Treasury building has raised significant concerns about its approach to architectural preservation and public fund allocation. Rather than enhancing the building’s architectural beauty and functionality, the project appears to reveal a lack of classical architectural expertise and a propensity for

In a significant development project initiated by King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u, Tonga is set to welcome a new building complex on the Royal estate “Polata’ane.” Announced by the Tonga Development Bank (TDB) .The project is not just a construction endeavour but a symbol of rejuvenation and economic boost for the country. Located on

In a momentous stride towards enhancing the capabilities of His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF), a group of promising individuals is set to embark on a transformative journey to prestigious Officer training schools in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Their dedication, hard work, and passion have paved the way for them to represent the

In a recent Change of Command Ceremony AWWQ Board member, Narelle Stanton welcomed and congratulated Commander Rosemarie Apikotoa, RAN, on assuming command of HMAS Moreton. CMDR Apikotoa is the first officer of Pacific Islander heritage to assume command of an RAN establishment. CMDR Rose Apikotoa embarked on her illustrious career as a Maritime Warfare Officer,

In a significant development for the Kingdom of Tonga, the latest addition to Lulutai Airlines’ fleet, a de-Havilland Twin Otter, has touched down in Australia for final preparations before it begins its essential service in Tonga. This milestone marks a considerable boost to the country’s current fleet and promises to enhance connectivity for families, communities,

Allegations Surrounding Vote of No Confidence Spark Second Judicial Review Nuku’alofa Monday 23rd October. – The political landscape in Tonga has been shaken as news emerges of judicial review proceedings against the Lord Speaker and the Legislative Assembly of Tonga. This legal action comes in response to allegations concerning parliamentary procedures related to a recent

Taniela Fusimalohi: The VONC outcome will be legally challenged. The motion for a Vote of No Confidence in the Prime Minister, tabled in Parliament, was defeated. However, rather than being a simple parliamentary decision, the issue will now transition to the legal realm, as justice is sought in the courts. The Members of Parliament who