In a firm address delivered by Lord Ma’afu on behalf of His Majesty, the King emphasised Parliament’s duty to hold the government accountable, particularly in ensuring transparency in taxpayer money.
The speech marked the soft closing of Parliament this morning.
The King underscored that the Constitution mandates strict oversight of public spending, urging lawmakers to fulfil their role in scrutinising government expenditures.
In Tongan he said: “Ko e Fale Alea ke ne fakapapau’i oku ngāue ‘a e pule’anga kotoa fakatatau ki he konisitutone’ mo e lao’. Ke fakapapau’i oku maau ‘a e founga ‘o e fakamole mo e pa’anga kotoa.”
The royal warning comes amid growing scrutiny over financial accountability, including recent revelations by Deputy Prime Minister Dr Taniela Fusimālohi, who accused Parliament of adopting “dangerous working procedures.”
Dr Fusimālohi had earlier exposed an Auditor General’s report revealing no records for how $60 million from the Covid Fund was spent.
This is not the first time the King has reproached Parliament for lapses in governance.
He previously chastised the House for failing to submit annual reports, a key transparency requirement.
In today’s speech, the King reaffirmed Tonga’s Christian values, calling for strict observance of the Sabbath.
His remarks follow reports by Kaniva News highlighting inconsistencies in enforcing Sunday trading laws, where some businesses remain open for tourists while locals face restrictions.
The King also reminded the people of other commandments from the Holy Bible, such as ‘Thou shalt not steal’ and ‘Thou shalt not covet’ warning against jealousy and the desperate desire for what belongs to others.
The King also acknowledged Tonga’s ongoing transition to a new system of governance but noted persistent challenges in implementing key policies. “We strive for a peaceful transition, yet daily obstacles remain,” he said in Tongan.
The address serves as both a reminder and a warning, as Tonga navigates reform, honesty in governance and adherence to tradition must remain paramount, especially under the watchful eyes of foreign donors and the public.
More than 50 per cent of Tonga’s annual budget depends on foreign donors.
