Tonga appoints first woman and youngest Chief Magistrate

Loupua Pahulu-Kuli has made history as Tonga’s first woman and youngest Chief Magistrate, overseeing the nation’s local courts with legal expertise and unwavering faith.

“It feels amazing,” Pahulu (‘Utulau, Lapaha, Houma, Ha’afeva) says. “I’m still getting used to the position, to the task… but it’s very exciting.”

She officially took on the role on 28 March, after five years as Senior Magistrate.

The Magistrate Court is similar to New Zealand’s local district courts, and the King of Tonga appoints the Chief Magistrate after a recommendation from the Judicial Appointment and Disciplinary Panel.

Pahulu-Kuli’s responsibilities include criminal, civil, family, and youth cases and overseeing judicial and administrative functions.

“I believe I have good people skills. Apart from the knowledge, you need to know how to talk and deal with people, I think it's vital in this position.”

Pahulu-Kuli succeeds Sione Folau Lokotui, who served for 15 years and played a significant role in preparing her for this position.

“I have great respect for him. He was my mentor for the last five years. Early in my appointment as a senior magistrate in 2020, Lokotui had tasked me with some administrative parts of the work, so I am very thankful to him.”

At 50 years old, Pahulu-Kuli is the youngest individual to become Chief Magistrate, a role that can be held until the age of 72.

The position operates under the Lord Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, who is currently Malcolm Bishop KC, having taken office in August 2024.

Loupua Pahulu-Kuli served as a Senior Magistrate for five years. Photo/IAWJ

Background and career

Pahulu-Kuli initially studied science at the University of Auckland but was inspired to retrain and secured a scholarship to study law at the University of South Pacific in Vanuatu, graduating as valedictorian.

Her previous roles include high school teacher, translator in the Supreme Court, probation officer, legal interpreter, Assistant Crown Counsel, legal researcher for Parliament, and private lawyer.

Pahulu-Kuli believes that each of these roles has contributed to her current position and strengthened her connections in the community.

“Tonga is such a small place! From my work as a probation officer, I still recognise cases or accused that I worked with.”

The Magistrate Court in Fahi, Nuku'alofa. Photo/Tongatime.com

In 2017, Pahulu-Kuli even contested a seat in Parliament. While she did not win, she claims the experience strengthened her determination.

“Before I became a senior magistrate, I was offered some jobs from overseas, but I think my heart was always in Tonga because that was the purpose of my returning and studying to be a lawyer, because I wanted to serve the people of Tonga.”

Tania Sharkey, a District Court Judge in New Zealand, says Pahulu-Kuli’s appointment is a significant milestone for women and the judicial system in Tonga.

“It is a testament to her outstanding legal abilities, commitment to the judicial oath and demonstrates her resilience and strength of character, being the youngest ever appointed as well,” Sharkey says.

“I am proud of her, but not surprised, given she is from Houma!”

Watch:Tongan lawyer Tania Sharkey is sworn in as District Court Judge in New Zealand

Childhood influences

Reflecting on her upbringing, Pahulu-Kuli says her childhood experiences taught her vital life lessons.

“It was not a smooth ride for me in life. We were a middle-class family, my parents sometimes were not able to afford to provide for us.”

Her faith has also been a cornerstone of her journey.

“I am certain that God has brought me all this way through all this… these jobs, these trials, these struggles in life, challenges, and the good stuff, things that I've been through all my life, I am sure that God has prepared me for this day.

“I believe that I would not be in this position if I hadn’t had my faith stamped in God - and also hard work. I believe in doing things, not just talk.”

Loupua Pahulu-Kuli believes her upbringing, lived experiences and various jobs have all contributed to where she is now. Photo/Ordinary Tongan Lives Facebook page

Pahulu-Kuli also acknowledges the importance of her community and family.

“The saying that the village raises the person is so true with my life,” she says, paying tribute to her parents, siblings, husband, and two children, along with leaders from the Catholic Church.

“Success is, I believe, in your hands,” she says. “I hope I’m able to inspire some people to pursue their goals.”