Colonel Latu’s Reappointment Signals Stability and Strong Governance at Tonga Energy Commission
The reappointment of Colonel (Ret’d) Siamelie Latu as Chief Executive Officer of the Tonga Energy Commissionhas been widely viewed as a steady and positive decision, reinforcing principles of good governance and institutional continuity at a critical time for Tonga’s energy sector.
The Commission confirmed this week that Colonel Latu will serve a further three-year term as CEO, beginning on 13 January 2026, following what it described as a comprehensive and open recruitment process. The appointment was approved by Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua, acting in his capacity as Minister responsible for energy, in line with statutory requirements.
Colonel Latu has led the Commission since August 2022, a period marked by significant regulatory change following the introduction of the Energy Act. During that time, the Commission has strengthened its role as an independent regulator, with a focus on consumer protection, system safety and reliability, and the promotion of fair and efficient electricity pricing. His tenure has also coincided with Tonga’s broader efforts to transition towards renewable energy and to place sustainability at the centre of national energy planning.
Observers note that the decision to reappoint Colonel Latu reflects confidence not only in his technical and regulatory expertise, but also in his approach to governance. Under his leadership, the Commission has navigated institutional reform while maintaining regulatory stability, an outcome often cited as essential for investor confidence and public trust in small island energy systems.
Beyond Tonga, Colonel Latu has played a prominent regional role. He served concurrently for three years as Chair of the Office of the Pacific Energy Regulators Alliance, during which time membership expanded from six to thirteen Pacific Island countries. That growth has been credited with strengthening cooperation among regulators and improving regulatory capacity across the region.
The Commission’s statement said the reappointment comes at an important juncture, as it prepares to undertake the next electricity tariff review of Tonga Power Limited and to progressively expand its mandate beyond electricity to encompass the wider energy sector.
Colonel Latu said he was honoured by the decision and acknowledged the confidence shown by both the Commission and the Government. He said the Commission’s responsibility to support a safe, affordable, reliable and sustainable energy supply for Tonga remained central to its work, and that he looked forward to continuing collaboration with commissioners, staff, government and stakeholders.
Established as an independent statutory body, the Tonga Energy Commission plays a central role in balancing the interests of consumers, industry and government. In that context, Colonel Latu’s reappointment is being interpreted as a signal of continuity and confidence in regulatory leadership, at a time when good governance is increasingly seen as critical to Tonga’s long-term energy security and economic resilience.
