Prominent Tongan social media personality and former anti-drug campaigner Afimeimo‘unga Hola has reportedly died.
Reports of Hola’s death began circulating on social media, although Kaniva News has not yet independently confirmed the circumstances of his death or received an official statement from his family.
Former rugby union coach and ‘Ikale Tahi player ‘Isi Fatani was among those who announced Hola’s death on Facebook this morning.
“Tokoua heikai teke ngalo ha taimi. RIP,” Fatani posted as he shared the tragic news.
The Tongan message translates approximately as: “Brother, you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.”
Hola was a well-known online personality in Tonga, attracting more than 10,000 followers on Facebook and frequently using social media to comment on public and community issues.
He became particularly prominent through his involvement in Tonga’s anti-drug movement, at a time when growing methamphetamine use and trafficking had become a major national concern.
His anti-drug activism later became embroiled in controversy after accusations involving members of Tonga’s prominent families and public figures were aired through social media.
In 2021, Hola was at the centre of a highly publicised dispute that divided some anti-drug campaigners and their supporters after allegations were made involving Princess Pilolevu Tuita.
The Princess subsequently filed a defamation lawsuit against Hola but later withdrew the case, apparently after taking into consideration Hola’s social media fundraising campaign to cover the costs of his legal defence.
The controversy generated considerable public debate and exposed divisions within the anti-drug movement over the allegations and the way the campaign was being conducted.
Hola later faced legal trouble over other claims he made online.
In 2022, a Nuku‘alofa Magistrate sentenced him to 11 months’ imprisonment, fully suspended, after he was convicted of two counts relating to electronic communications in which two business owners were accused of manufacturing and selling illicit drugs.
Despite the controversies surrounding him, Hola remained a recognisable figure on Tongan social media and was particularly associated with outspoken commentary on drugs and other social issues.
News of his reported death has begun prompting reaction among Tongans online.
Further details, including the cause and circumstances of his death, were not immediately available.
Kaniva News is seeking confirmation and further information from his family.
