New prime minister

Rabuka was elected Prime Minister by the Fijian Parliament and defeated former Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama by 28 votes to 27 on Saturday.

Hu'akavameiliku said in a tweet that the Tongan government looks forward to working closely with Rabuka and the Fijian Coalition government on matters of interest to both countries.

"I would like to congratulate Hon Rabuka on his election as Fijian Prime Minister and I Look forward to meeting him soon and having discussions on matters of national interest to both countries," Hon Hu'akavameiliku said.

In his speech before his election as PM yesterday, Sovaleni said people had to learn to know how to live together.

Kaniva News reports Sovaleni said education, health, economic developments, e-government, climate change, war on illicit drugs, natural disasters, youths and women initiatives and good governance were some of his priorities.

In his vote of thanks after he was declared the winner, Sovaleni was emotional and congratulated his supporters and all MPs.

Two MPs vying for the role are the incumbent, 'Akilisi Pohiva, who is up against his former deputy, Siaosi Sovaleni.

Siaosi Sovaleni and another minister, Tevita Lavema'au, were sacked by Mr Pohiva just weeks before the King dissolved parliament, that called for last month's snap election.

Akilisi Pohiva's Democratic Party has 14 of the legislature's 26 seats, but commentators said the election could go either way if MPs cross the floor.

Photo: RNZI/Monica Miller Tonga's caretaker PM 'Akilisi Pohiva