Noble MP

Lord Fusitu'a was re-elected as the Niuas' Noble Representative this week.

Last month the noble's seat for the Niuas was declared vacant because of the extended absence of Fusitu'a due to ill-health.

The seat is one of nine set aside and voted for by 33 hereditary nobles.

However as nobles could only vote in constituencies where their estates are attached there were usually a maximum of four votes cast by local nobility in the Niuas.

Matangi Tonga reported the hearing will consider a Crown proposal to have a joint trial of former Prime Minister Lord Tuʻivakanō and the two others.

Last week, the case was adjourned to be mentioned in September before a new Chief Justice.

Tuʻivakanō previously appeared before Lord Chief Justice Paulsen and pleaded not guilty to a total of 15 charges.

Twelve charges related to the issuance of Tongan passports include perjury and accepting bribes, while three are for possession of firearms and ammunition without a license.

As Kaniva News reported on September 15, Mr Vakatā was dismissed after a complaint from the Ministry’s Director of Women’s Affairs, Tupou ‘Ahau Fakakovi, that he hurled a glass of wine at her in Vavaʻu last month.

Mr Pōhiva told Kaniva News he would meet with his Cabinet ministers today to discuss the matter.

He mentioned Lord Vaea, Lord Tu’ihangana and Lord Tuʻiʻāfitu as potential candidates.