Cabinet minister

Viliami Manuopangai Hingano became the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry when the new government came to power at the end of last year.

In a statement the Prime Minister's Office said it is with profound sadness that they announce Mr Hingano's death.

The Prime Minister, Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, extended his deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the minister's family on behalf of the government.

He said the death is an immense loss to Tonga.

The death places the Tonga Government in a difficult position.

This week Fe'ao Vakata was sacked after a complaint was laid against him for throwing a wine glass at a senior civil servant.

The Prime Minister said Mr Vakata lost control of his temper and his behaviour was unacceptable.

Lord Vaea says there seems to be a double standard at play.

RNZ reports for the past month Noble Representative Lord Vaea has threatened a no confidence motion saying the government has underperformed, particularly when it comes to the budget and changes to the education sector.

No such motion has been submitted yet.

Internal Affairs Minister Fe'ao Vakata said it is unfortunate that Lord Vaea saw a no-confidence motion as necessary.