Tonga's elections conducted professionally, Commonwealth

The chair of the Commonwealth observer group says Tonga's elections last week were conducted peacefully and professionally.

The country went to the polls last week a year earlier than scheduled after the King dissolved parliament in September.

But Prime Minister 'Akilisi Pohiva's Democratic Party won a resounding victory in the peoples' electorates, with 14 candidates - including two women - winning seats.

The observer group's chair, Margaret Wilson, said the election was conducted thoroughly by officials and the results reflected the wishes of the people.

Ms Wilson encouraged the incoming government, MPs and other stakeholders to continue working together to strengthen democratic processes and clarify constitutional issues.

 

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