Tonga prepares for election as candidates step forward, foreign affairs bill looms large

Candidates running in Tonga’s upcoming election have until October 10 to submit their nominations.

When speaking to the media, Tonga’s Prime Minister Dr ‘Aisake Valu Eke was unable to confirm whether or not his Cabinet would be seeking re-election.

The official election date has yet to be set as the Electoral Office awaits the Writ of Election to be issued by King Tupou VI.

With elections a few months away, some candidates have taken to social media to announce their bids.

Former Tourism Minister and Tongatapu 2 People’s representative, Semisi Sika announced his candidacy for the upcoming general election.

Sika lost his seat in the 2021 election to current Education Minister, Dr ‘Uhilamoelangi Fasi.

Prime Minister of Tonga, Dr 'Aisake Eke. Photo/PMN News/Joseph Safiti

The Tongatapu 2 electoral constituency covers parts of the capital Nuku’alofa, which includes the villages of Fanga-’o-Pilolevu, Malietaha, Haveluloto and Tofoa.

In a Facebook post, Sika credits his father for his motivation to run in the upcoming election.

“Three years ago, I lost my seat in Parliament,” Sika says.

Semisi Sika (far left) was the People's Representative for Tongatapu 2. Photo/Supplied

“It was a shock, and I made a firm decision not to run again, which is a choice I shared openly.

“Even though I still had interest and energy for politics, I had completely lost the motivation and desire to return.

“With my parents’ blessing and guidance, I have decided to run for Parliament this November to serve Tonga with humility, faith, and integrity.

“Step by step, grace to grace, we can build a stronger nation.”

The son of Tonga’s former Prime Minister, ‘Akilisi Pōhiva, Samuela ‘Akilisi Pohiva, confirmed he will run for the Ha’apai 13 seat.

It is currently held by Veivosa Taka since 2014 and encompasses villages in the outer island of Ha’apai, including Nomuka, Ha’ano, Lotofoa and Mango.

Also confirming his candidacy in the upcoming election, Samuela reiterates his intentions to build a Parliament that strengthens the economy.

Samuela’s family is no stranger to politics, most recently with his sister, Teisa Pohiva, submitting a petition to the King to not grant Royal Assent for legislation that would transform the Ministry of Foreign Affairs into His Majesty’s Diplomatic Services.

Listen to Teisa Pohiva's full interview below.

Speaking to the media for the first time following knowledge of the bill being made public, Tonga’s Deputy Prime Minister, Taniela Fusimalohi, reassures that His Majesty’s Diplomatic Services will not hold authority to issue passports.

Fusimalohi says a Diplomatic Services Board will be established, which will oversee foreign policies, diplomatic appointments and embassies.

The Prime Minister will appoint the Board and Minister for Foreign Affairs.