PM 'Akilisi Pohiva

“We at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat respectfully convey our condolences to the Kingdom of Tonga, her people, and to Prime Minister Pōhiva’s family and friends on this very sad day.

“As one of the longest serving parliamentarians in our region, Prime Minister Pōhiva dedicated his life to the service and leadership of his country and people. During his political career we saw him transition from firebrand activist to an elder statesman of the Blue Pacific always staying true to his strong ideals of democracy and human rights,” said Dame Meg.

A spokesman said Mr Pohiva had been resting in hospital in Nuku'alofa since last week.

He had extensive medical care for a liver condition in New Zealand earlier this year, and after returning home in June was under instructions to rest but the spokesman said he started working too early and got tired.

But he said Mr Pohiva is intending to go to India this week for a meeting, and to Tuvalu next week for the summit.

Meanwhile Kaniva News reports the Noble MP Lord Fusitu'a has been airlifted to Auckland for medical treatment.

The prime minister 'Akilisi Pohiva had urged parliament to defer the petition, which alleges he and his cabinet colleagues breached the constitution, so that the budget could be debated.

The petition asks that an audit be carried out on some government department's budgets from 2015 until now.

It also proposes the impeachment of seven Cabinet Ministers including Mr Pohiva.

Mr Pohiva wants parliament to debate the proposed budget because there's only five or six days left to do so.

At a cabinet meeting on Friday the decision was made to withdraw from hosting because of a World Bank report looking at its economic impact.

'Akilisi Pohiva said cabinet decided to withdraw because of the financial implications of hosting the event.

RNZI repots preparations for the games have been beset with controversy, delays, and legal action.

Mr Pohiva said the decision to withdraw is another blow for Tonga but it could not be avoided.

This is the first time Mr Pohiva is visiting New Zealand’s largest viticulture and horticulture industries.

Tonga Now Online reports about 500 Tongan workers are employed by the Hawke Bays’ employers.

The Prime Minister will meet with five employers as part of his attempt to strengthen their relationship with his government.

The Tongan community in Napier along with staff from the RSE employers will host a welcoming lunch to welcome Mr Pohiva and his entourage.