The King is scheduled to appoint the Prime Minister-elect and members of the new Cabinet in a formal ceremony next week.

Prime Minister-elect Dr ‘Aisake Valu Eke

The Prime Minister Designate Dr ‘Aisake Eke confirmed this to Kaniva News this morning but did not provide the exact date.

He said the king is expected to arrive in Tonga this weekend before the appointments.

The news follows the extension of the current caretaker government arrangements under Acting Prime Minister Samiu Vaipulu until the king appoints the new Cabinet.

It is understood the Prime Minister-elect was in New Zealand last week, and he was expected to meet the king.     

The new government is facing heightened public expectations as citizens look for positive changes and accountability, especially after the serious accusations of corruption and mismanagement that were levelled against the previous administration of Hu’akavameiliku.

Many people are eager to see reforms and transparency in governance, hoping that the new leadership will address the issues that plagued the former government and restore trust in public institutions.

In response to the various allegations surrounding his administration, former Honorable Hu’akavameiliku expressed a willingness to face any legal actions that may arise.

He emphasized that he is open to pursuing legal avenues in order to clear his name and demonstrate the integrity of his government.

As we previously reported, a leaked document purported to show Dr Eke’s preliminary new Cabinet ministers and to-do list, seen by Kaniva News, showed that all Ministries must be reviewed and reported within the new administration’s first month.

As we reported last week, MP Dr ‘Uhilamoelangi Fasi, a supporter of Dr Eke, alleged that he had access to alarming claims about evidence of dishonesty within government ministries.  

He particularly mentioned the Ministry of Education.