King Tupou

Members of Parliament and invited guests gathered at the parliamentary chambers to receive the opening address.

The king congratulated the incoming Prime Minister, Siaosi Sovaleni, as well as all Parliamentarians on the successful completion, and peaceful transition of power leading to the opening of Parliament this year.

In his speech he said Covid-19 is still a serious and immediate risk to all citizens just as illegal drugs are still an ongoing risk to the population but especially to Tonga's children.

A letter from His Majesty was delivered to the dismissed cabinet ministers yesterday, Hon. Dr Pohiva Tu’I’onetoa has confirmed.

Dr Pohiva Tu’I’onetoa is the new Minister of Finance now.

He said the king had affirmed Prime Minister Akilisi Pohiva appointing of Lord Ma’afu as Deputy Prime Minister.

Hon Poasi Tei has taken over from Sovaleni as Minister of MEIDECC.

Hon. Dr. Tu‘i’onetoa said he was expecting an orderly handover of their repsonsibilities with the former Minister of Finance today at Treasury.