UPDATED: Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua met with former Prime Minister Dr ‘Aisake Eke as part of consultations ahead of forming his new cabinet, the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed in a statement.
This development could mark only the second time a Prime Minister has publicly acknowledged consulting a rival from a premiership contest during the formation of a Cabinet lineup since Tonga’s transition to democracy in 2010.
In that year, then Prime Minister Lord Tu‘ivakanō appointed his rival, Democratic Leader ‘Akilisi Pōhiva, as Minister of Health, though Pōhiva resigned just two weeks after the appointment.
There is no confirmation that Eke has been nominated to Lord Fakafanua’s Cabinet.
The statement comes amid widespread speculation on social and news media that an initial Cabinet submission to the palace was sent back for revision.
Prime Minister Fakafanua, when previously contacted by Kaniva News, did not deny the claim but urged caution against treating unverified reports as fact.
“In accordance with Clause 51(2) of the Constitution, the Prime Minister has now submitted his list of ministerial nominations to His Majesty King Tupou VI for appointment at the King’s pleasure,” the statement read.
It stated that the nominations followed “careful consideration and consultation,” which included discussions with members of parliament, as well as the former Prime Minister.
Dr Eke is regarded as a leading figure with extensive experience in the Ministry of Finance, where he served as a researcher, senior official, Secretary, and later as Minister.
After winning the premiership, Lord Fakafanua pledged to work towards uniting all 26 members of parliament, regardless of whom they supported in the election.
No Formal Parties
Tonga does not operate under a formal party system. Its 26-member Legislative Assembly comprises nine nobles’ representatives, elected by the country’s 33 hereditary nobles, and 17 People’s Representatives, elected from their respective constituencies.
Although informal groupings, such as the PTOA, exist, MPs are not legally bound by party discipline.
No public release date has been set for the cabinet list. It is expected before Parliament’s opening, typically in February.
The previous Cabinet was announced on January 28, 2025, with the surprise inclusion of four MPs appointed from outside Parliament. Under the Constitution, the Prime Minister is permitted to nominate up to four non-elected members to serve as MPs.
