Legislative Assembly

The representative for Tongatapu 10 and former Prime Minister, Pohiva Tuʻiʻonetoa, and Tongatapu 7 MP and Minister for Internal Affairs, Sione Sangster Saulala, have lost their seats after the court found them guilty of bribery related to the 2021 General Elections.

The Lord Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Lord Fakafanua confirmed receiving two Court Certifications on Tuesday informing them of the court’s decision.

It also marks the end of the current parliamentary term.

Three Nobles of the Realm, Lord Niukapu, Lord Ve’ehala and Lord Fohe delivered the closing speech from His Majesty, King Tupou VI. Lord Ve’ehala delivered the King’s closing remarks highlighted the many challenges that Tonga is now facing.

King Tupou VI was particularly concerned with the people’s safety from increasing illicit drugs related problems. It has specific devastating effects on the youth of the nation on whom we rely to build our country in the future.

Lord Speaker Fakafanua also nominated the Deputy Speaker, Lord Tu’ilakepa and the Whole House Committee Chair, Veivosa Taka to deliver the reply and have an audience with the King.

Most of Wednesday’s parliamentary debate was not broadcast live. This follows a direction from the Lord Speaker to allow an open and in-house discussion of reply to the King’s state opening address.

Meanwhile, Parliament is adjourned until Monday, May 10th for the discussion of the national budget.