More nobles resign from Tonga's Cabinet

Two nobles have resigned following Monday's sudden resignation of Tonga's Prime Minister, Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni.

Speaking at a press conference in Nuku'alofa, the caretaker Prime Minister, Samiu Vaipulu, confirmed that three ministers have now resigned: Lord Fohe, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forests; Lord Vaea, the Minister for Internal Affairs; and Lord Tu'i'afitu, the Minister of Lands, who resigned last month.

Tonga's Legislative Assembly. Photo/RNZ

All three ministers are also part of Tonga's Nobility and estate holders.

Discussions are taking place today regarding who will fill these portfolios.

As questions about the legitimacy of Tonga's Cabinet linger, Vaipulu confirmed that all ministers will remain in their positions until 24 December, when a new Prime Minister is selected.

Vaipulu also ruled out the possibility of himself contesting for the PM's seat.

Watch Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni's announcement of his resignation on Monday via Facebook.

PM explains decision to step down

Hu'akavameiliku said his decision to resign was made to allow members to select a new Prime Minister following two motions against him. But he has not ruled out running again for the position in the upcoming 2025 election.

He emphasised Tonga's foundational principle of 'tauataina' or freedom.

The representative for Tongatapu, Dr 'Aisake Eke, has initiated two motions of no confidence against the Prime Minister during the current parliamentary term.

Samiu Vaipulu, left, and Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni. Photo/BroadCom Broadcasting - Facebook

Apart from his role as Prime Minister, Hua'kavameiliku also serves as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), a position Tonga has not held for 17 years.

He said that talks are ongoing about the following steps, and PMN News knows that whoever is selected to bid as Prime Minister will take on this role.

Hu'akavameiliku expressed his determination to work closely with the incoming Prime Minister, especially in preparation for the PIF budget with the World Bank next year, which is expected to be a proposal of US$1.5 billion (NZ$2.6b).

Hu'akavameiliku retains his ministerial portfolios and emphasised his plans to work more closely with each department ahead of 24 December, focusing on education and police.

Watch Associate Professor Dr Mafua 'a e lulutai Malakai Koloamatangi explain the second vote of no confidence against the former Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni