The Government of Tonga has officially appointed Laini Koula ‘Univesiti Manuofetoa as the new Commissioner of Prisons, effective Tuesday, 29 July 2025.
The 42-year-old from Holonga, Vava’u and Fatai, Tongatapu assumed his new role during a formal ceremony at the Prime Minister’s Office.
The newly appointed Commissioner signed a three-year contract and took his oath of office before the Honourable Prime Minister, Dr. ‘Aisake Valu Eke, who serves as Minister for Prisons.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, including the Chief Secretary and Secretary to Cabinet.
Manuofetoa brings extensive experience to the position, having dedicated his entire career to Tonga’s corrections system. He first joined as a Junior Prison Officer in 2004 and steadily rose through the ranks over the past two decades.
His career progression includes serving as a Cadet Officer from 2013 to 2015, Superintendent of Prisons from 2015 to 2019, and most recently as Deputy Commissioner of Prisons since 2019.
Educated at Holonga Primary School in Vava’u and Seventh-day Adventist Church Mangaia Primary School before attending Tupou College, Manuofetoa has consistently pursued professional development.
He holds a Master of Business Administration (2016) and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management (2014), both from the University of the South Pacific.
His qualifications also include a Diploma in Police Management obtained in 2012, and he is currently working toward a Bachelor of Laws degree.
Prime Minister Dr. ‘Aisake Eke expressed confidence in the new Commissioner’s ability to lead the prison service, stating that Manuofetoa’s extensive experience and educational background make him ideally suited for the role.
The Prime Minister extended his congratulations and best wishes for success in the challenging position.
As Commissioner, Manuofetoa will oversee all operations of Tonga’s prison system, with the expectation to implement modern reforms while maintaining focus on rehabilitation and humane treatment of inmates.
His appointment comes at a time when the government is seeking to strengthen the corrections system through professional leadership and evidence-based policies.
The ceremony concluded with traditional formalities, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a transformative period for Tonga’s prison administration under Manuofetoa’s leadership.
