MPs to Face Salary Deduction Over Unnotified Absences, Rules Speaker
Nuku’alofa — Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Lord Fakafanua, has invoked disciplinary measures against Members of Parliament who failed to notify the House of their absence during Monday’s morning roll call, ordering a one-day salary deduction in accordance with parliamentary rules.
The decision followed concerns raised by Hon. Dr. Viliami Latu, MP for Vavaʻu 16, who pointed to the conspicuous absence of several Cabinet Ministers at the start of the session. Only two Ministers were present—well below the required quorum of 15 MPs—prompting the Speaker to prepare for adjournment before Acting Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Taniela Fusimalohi entered the chamber, albeit after roll call had concluded.
Dr. Fusimalohi offered a formal apology, explaining his tardiness was due to official duties opening the 2025 Pacific Network Meeting of National Ozone Officers. He also noted that several other Ministers were engaged in ceremonies commemorating International Firefighters’ Day.
Former Prime Minister and Tongatapu 3 MP, Hon. Hu’akavameiliku, underscored the importance of transparency and communication from MPs, particularly Cabinet members, when unable to attend sittings. Lord Vaea, Noble Representative for Tongatapu 1, echoed the sentiment and called on the Speaker to enforce House rules more stringently.
In response, Lord Fakafanua cited Rule 29 of the House Procedures, which mandates a salary deduction for MPs who fail to provide advance notice of absence. He directed Clerk of Parliament Gloria Pole’o to coordinate with the Finance Controller and Treasury to carry out the deductions. This applies equally to absences due to illness if notification is not provided beforehand.
The enforcement signals a stricter stance on parliamentary discipline amid growing concerns over absenteeism in the legislature.
