Prime Minister ‘Akilisi Pōhiva was in good spirits since last night after being taken to Vaiola hospital on Friday night, a Ministry of Health spokesperson said.

Reports said he was expected to attend swearing-in ceremony of Members of Parliament in Nuku’alofa this Thursday.

As Kaniva News reported last night, Hon. Pōhiva remains in Vaiola and was in stable condition.

He was moved to the hospital’s intensive care unit after a decision to keep him undisturbed by visitors and other patients at the hospital, the spokesperson said.

He said the Prime Minister needs to have good rest.

Health authority did not disclose his illness.

A medical evacuation to New Zealand was planned but later cancelled.

New Government

Hon Pōhiva, 76, was appointed by King Tupou VI on Tuesday 2 as Tonga’s next Prime Minister until 2021.

He submitted his cabinet lineup to the palace office on Wednesday 3 before it was approved by King Tupou VI to be effective from January 5.

His cabinet ministers held first meetings with their staff yesterday in their respective ministerial portfolios.