Tonga Independent News

POLITICS

POLITICS

Dr. Aisake Eke: A Prime Ministerial Prospect for Tonga’s Prosperity

As Tonga prepares to elect a new Prime Minister following the resignation of Hon. Siaosi Sovaleni amidst a Vote of ...
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POLITICS

SAME MINDS CANNOT FIND SOLUTIONS TO PROBLEMS THEY CREATED

With Prime Minister Sovaleni now out, Tonga stands at a critical moment. The pressing question for Parliament is whether re-electing ...
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POLITICS

Reassessing Siaosi Sovaleni’s Leadership: A Legacy of Missed Opportunities and Political Reality

A social media post celebrating the achievements of former Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni’s tenure (2021–2024) warrants closer scrutiny. While his ...
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POLITICS

Opinion: Tonga at a Crossroads: Navigating Leadership Uncertainty with Unity and Resolve

Tonga finds itself at a historic crossroads. The unexpected resignation of Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni during his final speech in ...
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POLITICS

Nomination Period for Tonga’s Prime Minister Designate Opens

The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Lord Fakafanua, has officially invited Elected Representatives to submit nominations for the position of ...
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POLITICS

The Sudden Resignation of Lord Tu’i’afitu: A Reflection of Tensions in Tonga’s Governance

The sudden resignation of Lord Tu’i’afitu, Tonga’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, has unveiled deep-seated tensions between the monarchy, ...
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POLITICS

Speaker Grants Extension Request by Prime Minister

The Prime Minister has formally requested an extension from the Speaker to submit his response to the Motion of No ...
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POLITICS

Sovaleni’s Leadership on Trial: Anticipation Builds Ahead of No-Confidence Vote

The storm clouds of political uncertainty loom large over the corridors of Tongan politics as Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Sovaleni braces ...
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POLITICS

Lord Fakafanua: Betraying Trust, Undermining Tonga’s Democracy

Lord Fakafanua holds one of the most critical roles in Tonga’s governance. Entrusted with upholding the Constitution, protecting the dignity ...
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POLITICS

Opinion: The Prime Minister’s Overreach: Why Parliament Needs Reform

The current structure of Tonga’s Parliament has allowed for the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual, ...
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POLITICS

Tonga Development Bank’s 2023 Annual Report to be Submitted to Parliament Amid Concerns Over Financial Transparency

By Jessica Finau, Financial Correspondent The Tonga Development Bank (TDB) will soon release its highly anticipated 2023 Annual Report, a ...
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POLITICS

Scramble to Cancel Putin’s Secret Invite at Pacific Island Forum

During the recent Pacific Island Forum held in Tonga, the country’s Foreign Affairs secretaries scrambled to cancel a secret invitation ...
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POLITICS

Austerity’s Ripple Effect: How Cuts in NZ Hit Tongan Families at Home and Abroad

The National-ACT-NZ First Coalition Government’s promise to deliver $16 billion in income tax cuts without slashing frontline public services crumbled ...
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POLITICS

Starlink Mini and Tonga gov’s Temporary Permit

By Edwin Liava’a 21 July 2024 The recent Starlink shutdown in Tonga, while a setback, has also sparked a crucial ...
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POLITICS

The Starlink Shutdown in Tonga: A Tale of Conflicting Interests and Citizen Awareness

By Edwin LiavaaBlockchain Wiz/IT Expert/Telecom Specialist The Starlink Shutdown in Tonga: A Tale of Conflicting Interests and Citizen Awareness Today’s ...
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POLITICS

A Victory for Compassion: Tongan Caregiver Granted Temporary Visa After Intense Campaign

An Auckland family’s desperate fight to stop their aunt Loasi Latu from being deported has paid off.The Tongan migrant, who ...
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POLITICS

A Test of Compassion: The Heart-Wrenching Case of a Tongan Caregiver Facing Deportation

Politicians and community members are rallying behind Loasi Latu, a Tongan migrant facing deportation after overstaying her visa for over ...
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POLITICS

Mounting Concerns Over Tonga’s Housing Development Ahead of Pacific Islands Forum

Concerns are mounting in Tonga about whether a planned housing development will be completed in time to accommodate over 1,000 ...
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POLITICS

France Accuses Azerbaijan of interfering in New Caledonia as PM arrives for Climate Change talks

New Caledonia’s UnrestNew Caledonia, a French-ruled territory in the Pacific, has experienced significant turmoil due to a controversial electoral reform. ...
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POLITICS

US-China Rivalry Intensifies in the Pacific: A New Chapter with the Recognition of the Cook Islands and Niue

In a strategic move to bolster its influence in the Pacific region, US President Joe Biden announced on Monday, 26 ...
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POLITICS

New Caledonia Crisis: France Declares State of Emergency Amidst Voting Reform Unrest and Regional Tensions

In a significant escalation of ongoing tensions, France has declared a state of emergency in New Caledonia, an overseas territory, ...
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POLITICS

“Preserving Sovereignty: Navigating the Risks of Foreign Policing in the Pacific”

The recent involvement of Chinese police in the Pacific Islands, particularly in Kiribati and Tonga, signals a concerning shift in ...
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POLITICS

King Tupou VI Urges Collective Action in closing Parliament Address

In a significant address concluding the parliamentary session on Thursday, May 2nd, 2024, His Majesty King Tupou VI of Tonga ...
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POLITICS

Questions Arise Over Pacific Leaders Forum Accommodation Plan

The 53rd Pacific Leaders Forum was launched by the Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni at the Faonelua Convention Centre on April ...
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POLITICS

Leaked document shows Tonga criticised Australia and New Zealand

A leaked document from Tonga’s Foreign Affairs Ministry shows that officials sharply criticised Australia and New Zealand’s response to the ...
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POLITICS

Tonga Considers China’s Security Offer for Regional Summit, Sparking U.S. and Australian Concerns

On Thursday 4 April 2024, Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni expressed a willingness to accept China’s offer of security assistance for ...
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POLITICS

Tonga acknowledges the outgoing Australian High Commissioner’s significant diplomatic contributions

The Prime Minister honoured the departing Australian High Commissioner, Her Excellency Rachael Moore in a farewell event at the Australian ...
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POLITICS

Prime Minister Confirms his resignation as Minister of Defence

Prime Minister Hon Hu’akavameiliku has finally confirmed his resignation (reported by Tonga Independent bit.ly/4crPLxJ ) and the Minister of Foreign ...
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POLITICS

Revolutionary Pacific Engagement Visa Unveiled: 3,000 Annual Slots Open for a New Life in Australia!

Australia is gearing up to introduce a new Pacific quota within its permanent migration policy, offering a landmark opportunity for ...
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POLITICS

MPs Push for Transparency in Lulutai Airlines Share Deal

The controversy surrounding the recent share transaction between Lulutai Airlines and the Retirement Fund Board has escalated, with MPs expressing ...
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POLITICS

Tonga Welcomes Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland KC

Tonga is set to host the esteemed Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland KC, marking her inaugural official visit ...
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POLITICS

Dr. Mo’ ale ‘Otunuku wins Vava’u 14 By-election

Dr Mo’ale ‘Otunuku of Longomapu has won the Vava’u 14 By-election with 709 votes, securing his seat as a new ...
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POLITICS

Opinion: Tonga’s Governance Crisis: Demanding Transparency and Accountability

Recent revelations surrounding the sale of shares in Lulutai Airlines have once again thrust Tonga’s governance into the spotlight. The ...
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POLITICS

Prime Minister Sovaleni and Utoikamanu resign from disputed Ministries

Tonga Independent has received reliable information that Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni (Huakavameiliku) has surrendered the Defence Ministry portfolio, and Fekita ...
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POLITICS

Prime Minister Sovaleni Facing Growing Pressure to Resign

Recent developments have led to unnecessary public political smearing and undermining of His Majesty’s authority as Head of State, risky ...
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POLITICS

Questions Arise Over Prime Minister’s Role in Lulutai Airlines Share Sale to Retirement Fund

Lulutai Airlines Limited, a government-owned entity, made headlines when it sold a significant bundle of shares to the Retirement Fund ...
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POLITICS

Prime Minister Sovaleni Raises Alarm Over USP Crisis Impacting Tongan Students

Tonga’s Prime Minister, Siaosi Sovaleni over the week-end on X, expressed his concern regarding the ongoing developments at the University ...
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POLITICS

Prime Minister in Emergency Meeting to Address Flash Flooding – NDRMC

The Prime Minister and Acting Minister for MEIDECC, Hon Hu’akavameiliku, took charge of the National Disaster Risk Management Committee (NDRMC) ...
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POLITICS

Foreign Minister’s Statements on Tonga’s Laws Spark Controversy

What amounts to an own goal, previous statements by Foreign Minister Fekita Utoikamanu has caused questions and concern for misrepresenting ...
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POLITICS

Political Turmoil Unfolds as Tonga’s Struggle Between Tradition and Democracy

Tonga finds itself amidst a notable political narrative, shedding light on the complexities of a young democracy navigating the terrain ...
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POLITICS

Tonga Gas Senior Officers in Hot Water Over Alleged Lease Negotiation Misrepresentation

The Tonga Gas Limited finds itself embroiled in controversy as three Senior officers of the company are under scrutiny for ...
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POLITICS

Political Tensions Rise in Tonga: Noble’s Representatives Challenge Prime Minister’s Authority

Nuku’alofa, Tonga – In a recent development that has heightened political tensions in Tonga, a significant challenge has been posed ...
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POLITICS

Legal Battles and Leadership Crisis Surround Tonga’s Chief Diplomatic Officer

Fekita ‘Utoikamanu, the nation’s Chief Diplomatic Officer, now finds herself engulfed in a whirlwind of controversy. The tempest brewed after ...
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POLITICS

Tongatapu 7 Representative Piveni Piukala suspended from Parliament

The Legislative Assembly voted today to suspend Tongatapu 7 Member of Parliament, Piveni Piukala, for offending and disrespecting the Prime ...
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POLITICS

No Consequence to Rebelling against the King?

Last week, His Majesty Tupou VI announced to the Cabinet in a letter that he has withdrawn his appointment of ...
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POLITICS

New Zealand Deputy PM’s Strategic Visit to Tonga Amid Political Tensions

In a strategic response to the ongoing political unrest in Tonga, New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister, Winston Peters, along with ...
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POLITICS

King revokes appointment of Foreign Minister, removes Defence Ministry portfolio from Prime Minister

The Tonga Independent has received reliable confirmed reports that His Majesty King Tupou VI, in a recent Council decision, has ...
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POLITICS

Tonga’s Balancing Act: Navigating a High-Stakes Debt Dilemma with China

Tonga is facing a precarious balancing act with its substantial debts to China. After a decade of delays, renegotiations, and ...
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POLITICS

From Treasury to Tragedy: Government’s $2 Million Lavish Restoration of Historic Treasury Building Raises Eyebrows and Questions

The Tongan government’s expenditure of more than $2 million on the “renovation” of the old Treasury building has raised significant ...
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POLITICS

Royal Estate Development Including Conference Centre and Luxury Villas

In a significant development project initiated by King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u, Tonga is set to welcome a new ...
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POLITICS

His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF) Future Leaders Set Sail for Prestigious Officer Training Schools Across the Globe

In a momentous stride towards enhancing the capabilities of His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF), a group of promising individuals is ...
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POLITICS

First officer of Polynesian descent to command Australian Warships at sea

In a recent Change of Command Ceremony AWWQ Board member, Narelle Stanton welcomed and congratulated Commander Rosemarie Apikotoa, RAN, on ...
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POLITICS

Australia Supports Tonga’s Air Connectivity with Arrival of New Twin Otter Aircraft

In a significant development for the Kingdom of Tonga, the latest addition to Lulutai Airlines’ fleet, a de-Havilland Twin Otter, ...
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POLITICS

Legal Challenge: Judicial Review Targets Lord Speaker and Legislative Assembly

Allegations Surrounding Vote of No Confidence Spark Second Judicial Review Nuku’alofa Monday 23rd October. – The political landscape in Tonga ...
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POLITICS

Independent MPs Seek Court’s Intervention Over Blocked Deliberations on Prime Minister’s Vote

Taniela Fusimalohi: The VONC outcome will be legally challenged. The motion for a Vote of No Confidence in the Prime ...
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POLITICS

Tonga’s Political Tightrope: PM Sovaleni’s Unprecedented Gamble

In a move that sent shockwaves through Tonga’s political corridors, Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni managed to dodge what many considered ...
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POLITICS

Prime Minister Survives Vote of No Confidence Amid Controversy

Prime Minister Hon. Siaosi Sovaleni successfully overcame a Vote of No Confidence (VONC) lodged against him by Tongatapu 5 representative, ...
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POLITICS

Prime Minister Submits Response to Motion of No Confidence

Sources have confirmed that Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni has submitted his response to the Parliament Office regarding charges made against ...
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POLITICS

Kei fiemaʻu ke hoko atu liliu fakapolitikale?

Faʻu ʻe Tevita Motulalo Kuo toe fokotuʻu mai ki he Fale Aleá ke fakafoki hake ʻa e Liliu Fakapolitikalé mo ...
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POLITICS

Hoko fakalelei konisitutone 2010 ko e matapa ki he kumi mafai (VONC)

Ko e popoaki ia ‘oku talamai pea ‘ikai ke toe lava ‘o faka’ikai’i ‘i he hili ‘a e fakalelei fakakonisitutone ...
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POLITICS

No-Confidence Motion Filed Against Prime Minister Sovaleni of Tonga

On August 22, 2023, the office of the Speaker of the Tonga House of Parliament received a significant petition, marking ...
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POLITICS

OPINION – Col. (Ret’d) Siamelie Latu China and Solomon Island’s Signed Security Cooperation Agreement

Introduction The chaos in the Solomon Islands is caused by just one ethnic group, M4D (Malaita for Democracy). They claim ...
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POLITICS

Emerging from Ashes: Tonga’s Resilient Economic Rebound and Ongoing Challenges – IMF

Tonga has made significant strides in rebounding from the dual shocks of a volcanic eruption and tsunami that rocked the ...
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POLITICS

Prime Minister Misrepresents Fiscal Health of Tonga: Deficit Ignored

In a startling revelation, the former Finance Minister and Parliament member, Dr. Aisake Eke, has contradicted the Prime Minister’s recent ...
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POLITICS

US Secretary of State Discusses China in Recent Tonga Visit

Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State, was present in Tonga for bilateral discussions on Wednesday 26 July 2023. In a ...
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POLITICS

Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs Prevails in Unlawful Disciplinary Action Case Against the Commission

Nuku’alofa, Tonga – In a recent court case that captured attention due to its implications for the public service sector, ...
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POLITICS

THIS WILL BE THE FIRST SUCCESSFUL VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE: PIUKALA

In a recent interview with Tonga Independent, Piukala, a member of the Opposition in Parliament, expressed confidence in their ability ...
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POLITICS

Trans-Tasman Relations: A Model for Tonga’s Approach to Overstayers Issue

For the past two to three years, the Tongan community has been relentlessly pursuing its mission to convince the New ...
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POLITICS

Ngali nga’unu e kau Tau’ataina mo e PTOA ki he VONC, fefe kau nopele?

Ko e tuai e kemo ‘a e mahino ‘a e fili si’i ‘a Tongatapu 10 kuo ikuna ‘e he Kapeli ...
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POLITICS

US SECRETARY OF STATE ANTHONY BLINKEN TAKES HISTORIC VISIT TO TONGA

ANTHONY Blinken, the Secretary of State of the United States of America, will be making a historic visit to Tonga, ...
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POLITICS

Political Shake-up in Tonga: Tongatapu 10 By-election Reveals Surprising Trends and Pivotal Changes

Amid a flurry of festivities, including the annual Heilala Festival, Tonga High School Diamond Jubilee, and Pasifika Medical Association’s 80th ...
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POLITICS

Dawn Raid Apology: A New Dawn or Hollow Words?

In August 2021, New Zealand made history when its government formally apologized for the infamous ‘Dawn Raids’ of the 1970s. ...
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POLITICS

Unveiling Tongatapu 10 By-Election Candidate, Daniel K. Fale: An Exclusive Interview

With the Tongatapu 10 by-elections fast approaching, the need for voters to understand each candidate’s vision, policies, and commitments is ...
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POLITICS

Navigating the Vote of No Confidence in Tonga: Balancing Democracy and Stability

In parliamentary democracies, the Vote of No Confidence (VoNC) stands as a crucial tool for ensuring government accountability and responsiveness. ...
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POLITICS

Unprecedented Debate in Tonga Parliament over 2023-2024 Budget and Foreign Aid Reliance.

On June 20th, 2023, the Tonga Parliament witnessed a fiery discussion following the presentation of the 2023-2024 budget by the ...
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POLITICS

Tongan Consulate Declines Honorary Gesture Proposed by New Zealand MPs of Tongan Heritage for the Late Princess Siu’ilikutapu

The Independent has reliably learned that members of the New Zealand Parliament of Tongan heritage approached the Tongan Consulate with ...
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POLITICS

Remembering Her Royal Highness Princess Mele Siu’ilikutapu: A Beacon of Dedication, Faith, and Service

With profound respect and deep sadness, we commemorate the life and legacy of Her Royal Highness Princess Mele Siu’ilikutapu. On ...
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POLITICS

VIGIL IN AUCKLAND FOR FORMIDABLE PRINCESS

A vigil for the royal funeral of the late Princess Mele Siuilikutapu Kalaniuvalu Fotofili will be held at Morrison Funeral ...
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POLITICS

The Legislative Assembly Mourns the Passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Mele Siu’ilikutapu Kalaniuvalu Fotofili

The Legislative Assembly of Tonga joins in mourning following the sad news of the passing of Her Royal Highness Princess ...
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POLITICS

Parliament Finally Takes Action: Addressing Ongoing Concerns at Tonga Power

Why has it taken over 12 months for Parliament to act? Mr. Panuve, the Chairman of Tonga Power, told Tonga ...
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POLITICS

Contractors Sue Ministry and the Minister for Breach of Contract

Three companies contracted by the Tongan Government to supply coral to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MOl) have ...
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POLITICS

Government to rename Mate Ma’a Tonga for England Tour

The Government of Tonga has taken over the management of the National Rugby League team previously known as Mate Ma’a ...
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POLITICS

Government Launches Labour Mobility Supply Management Strategy.

The Government has launched its Labour Mobility Supply Management Strategy to address concerns about labour mobility in the Pacific region ...
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POLITICS

Government risks defiance of Judiciary /Minister Charged with Contempt of Court

Its FREE until 30th April Lord Chief Justice Whitten has warned government that the Courts have enough power and precedence ...
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New Zealand's Deputy PM Carmel Sepuloni has Tongan heritage
POLITICS

New Zealand’s Deputy PM Carmel Sepuloni has Tongan heritage

New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has appointed Carmel Sepuloni as the country’s new Deputy Prime Minister. Sepuloni, who has ...
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POLITICS

Former Prime Minister Passed Away In America

Pohiva Tuionetoa 1951-2023 One of Tonga’s most consequential and historic Prime Ministers, the Reverend Doctor Pohiva Tuionetoa has passed away ...
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