The Tonga Electoral Commission has announced the appointment of two new commissioners, marking a significant leadership transition within the body responsible for overseeing the Kingdom’s electoral processes.
The Commission confirmed that Police Magistrate Mr Penisimani Lupeitu’u Ma’u has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Tonga Electoral Commission, effective from April 29, 2026.
Mr Ma’u will serve a term of five years.
Mr Ma’u succeeds the former Chairman, Rt Hon. Lord Dalgety KC, who has recently retired from the Commission after his tenure.
In a concurrent appointment, Honorary Consul Mrs ‘Amelia Fakahikuo’uiha Helu has been named as a new Commissioner of the Tonga Electoral Commission.
Her appointment also took effect on April 29, 2026, and she will likewise serve a five-year term. Mrs Helu replaces Mr Ma’u, who previously held a position as a Commissioner before assuming the chairmanship.
In an official press release issued on April 30, 2026, both appointments were made with the formal consent of His Majesty, acting on the advice of His Majesty’s Privy Council, in accordance with Section 4(1)(a) of the Electoral Commission Act of the Kingdom of Tonga.
The Electoral Commission expressed confidence in the new leadership, noting that both appointees bring valuable skills and experience to their respective roles.
The announcement was released by the Acting Supervisor of Elections.
