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Man jailed for $20,000 fraud over Kolomotuʻa false land sale

By
Kaniva Staff
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A man has been sentenced to prison after the Supreme Court found he fraudulently obtained money by falsely selling a town allotment in Kolomotuʻa, Tonga, according to court documents.

Penisimani Fisi’ihoi

The case centred on the unlawful sale of land known as Mohutapuaki, which was subject to a registered mortgage and had already been surrendered to another party at the time of the transaction.

Penisimani Fisi’ihoi, 43, promoted the sale of the allotment in April 2024, offering it to the complainant for $20,000, citing urgent financial need, according to the judgment.

The complainant paid the full amount over two days and, in return, was given a letter purportedly surrendering the land to her eldest son, along with a stamped document and a copy of the deed of grant.

Subsequent enquiries with the Ministry of Lands revealed that no such surrender had been received.

Police investigations later found that the surrender letter was never filed, the Ministry stamp used was not genuine, the reference number related to an unrelated land matter, and the deed of grant provided did not disclose an existing mortgage.

Investigators also established that the land had already been surrendered earlier in April 2024 to a different individual.

Defendant Admits Fraud

During police interviews, the defendant admitted to the offending, acknowledging that he had fabricated the surrender document and used a false Ministry stamp without authorisation.

He told investigators he was experiencing financial difficulty and believed the land was unencumbered at the time.

In submissions to the court, the defendant did not file formal written arguments as directed in October 2025 but apologised in court and sought leniency.

He told the court he wished to repay the complainant and claimed to have reimbursed approximately $6,000.

The Crown said it was unable to verify that claim, and the complainant was reported to be overseas at the time of the hearing.

Fisi’ihoi pleaded guilty to one count of obtaining money by false pretence, contrary to section 164 of the Criminal Offences Act.

Court documents show that Justice Tupou KC reduced the starting point by six months in mitigation, resulting in a final sentence of 24 months’ imprisonment.

Auckland Police release images of two men sought over Karangahape rd brawl

By
Kaniva Staff
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Police have released images of two men they are seeking to identify in relation to a large brawl involving about 50 people in central Auckland last weekend.

The incidents, which involved a series of assaults, occurred in the early hours of Sunday, December 28, around the Karangahape Road area.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Greaves said the newly released photographs show two young men police would like to speak with as part of their ongoing inquiries.

“I am asking anyone who recognises these individuals to please contact police,” Greaves said.

He said one man was wearing black pants, a blue-and-black Hunting and Fishing jacket, and a black cap with white writing. The second man was wearing a white shirt and a beige hat.

A 21-year-old man was already arrested in relation to the assaults.

He was charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and was due to appear in court on January 16.

The public are asked to call police if they have any information and to quote reference number 251228/4774, or to report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police say any information that could assist in identifying the two men would be appreciated.

PM Lord Fakafanua names new government

By
Kalino Latu
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Tonga’s new Prime Minister, Lord Fakafanua, has announced his 11-member Cabinet.

Most Cabinet ministers have been selected from among elected members of Parliament.

One portfolio has been filled from outside Parliament, with the Crown Prince appointed as Minister for Foreign Affairs and His Majesty’s Armed Forces, roles he also held in the previous government.

Aside from the Prime Minister, no Cabinet ministers have been appointed from among the noble members of Parliament, continuing a pattern set by the previous government.

The Prime Minister will oversee two major portfolios: police, prisons, and fire and emergency services; and the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change, and Communications (MEIDECC).

The only woman newly elected to Parliament, Fane Fotu Fituafe, has been appointed Minister of Internal Affairs, a portfolio that includes women’s affairs, social development, and employment.

Lord Fakanua has assembled several members of Parliament, previously involved in intense debate and confrontation in Parliament. They are Dr Taniela Fusimalohi, former Prime Minister Huʻakavameiliku (Siaosi Sovaleni), and former Infrastructure Minister Seventiini Toumoʻua.

Dr Fusimalohi previously served as a deputy prime minister in the government led by Dr ʻAisake Eke, which initiated a vote of no confidence in December 2024. The motion ultimately prompted Prime Minister Huʻakavameiliku’s resignation before it could be debated.

The same episode also led to Toumoʻua losing his ministerial post in that Cabinet.

The incident escalated into prolonged clashes in Parliament last year involving the trio, following a series of serious allegations made by Dr Fusimalohi—who was then Minister for Infrastructure—against Huʻakavameiliku and Toumoʻua. Among these was a dispute that culminated in Fusimalohi accusing Toumoʻua of defamation on social media, as alleged at the time.

PM Lord Fakafanua presented his ministerial recommendations to King Tupou VI during an audience on December 26, the Prime Minister’s Office recently said.

The King formally appointed the new ministers on Wednesday, 31, 2025, in accordance with the Constitution, which requires appointments to be made on the Prime Minister’s advice.

The appointments released by the Prime Minister’s Office today are as follows:

  • Lord Fakafanua

Prime Minister

Minister for Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Communications and Climate Change (MEIDECC); Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, and Prisons

  • Dr Viliami Uasike Latu

Deputy Prime Minister

Minister for Justice; Minister for Trade and Economic Development

  • HRH Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala

Minister for His Majesty’s Diplomatic Services; Minister for His Majesty’s Armed Forces

  • Siaosi ‘Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni

Minister for Public Enterprises; Minister for Health

  • Lataifaingata’a Tangimana

Minister for Finance & National Planning

  • Semisi Kioa Lafu Sika

Minister for Tourism; Minister for Infrastructure

  • Dr Taniela Liku’ohihifo Fusimalohi

Minister for Lands, Survey, Planning and Natural Resources

  • Dr Mo’ale ‘Otunuku

Minister for Education and Training

  • Sevenitini Toumo’ua

Minister for Customs and Inland Revenue

  • Viliami Sisifa

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forests; Minister for Fisheries

  • Fane Fotu Fituafe

Minister for Internal Affairs, Employment, Women, Social Protection, Youth and Sports.

BBC welcomes 2026 with New Year message featuring Tongans and New Zealanders

By
Kalino Latu
-

The BBC has welcomed the start of 2026 with a New Year message highlighting celebrations in Tonga and New Zealand, placing the two Pacific nations among the first in the world to usher in the new year.

In its New Year coverage, the BBC carried the greeting, “‘May 2026 be filled with peace, hope, and blessing’:Tongans and New Zealanders welcome new year,” as Tonga entered the new year ahead of most countries due to its position near the International Date Line.

Across the Kingdom, the New Year was marked primarily through church services and family gatherings, reflecting Tonga’s deeply rooted Christian traditions.

Many congregations held late-night services to give thanks for the year that had passed and to seek God’s guidance and protection for the year ahead.

Fireworks also featured in Tonga’s celebrations to welcome the new year.

Families gathered in homes and villages throughout Tongatapu, Vavaʻu, Haʻapai, and ʻEua, welcoming 2026 in quiet observance rather than large public celebrations.

Messages shared among communities focused on peace, good health, and unity, particularly following recent years of social and economic challenges.

While celebrations in New Zealand were more visibly public, the broadcaster noted the contrast with Tonga’s faith-centred observances.

As one of the first nations to enter the new year, Tonga’s New Year moment was broadcast to international audiences, offering a glimpse of the Kingdom’s cultural and spiritual values at the very start of 2026.

New Year’s eve thunderstorms threaten North Island celebrations, while Hawke’s Bay sees respite

By
Kaniva Staff
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Auckland,NZ – Thousands of New Year’s Eve revellers across the upper North Island are facing a sodden and potentially dangerous countdown as MetService places Auckland under a severe thunderstorm watch.

The severe weather is forecast to bring disruptive, very heavy rain and flash flooding risks through the evening, while offering a silver lining for drenched holidaymakers in Hawke’s Bay.

The meteorological service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Auckland City, Rodney, Gulf Islands, and Albany, effective until 7:30 pm Monday.

The volatile cells are tracking southeast and were predicted to be near central Auckland and Auckland Airport at 7:00 pm. By 7:30 pm, they are expected to impact Pukekohe, Papakura, Drury, Patumahoe, and Kingseat.

“These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by very heavy rain,” a MetService spokesperson warned. The public is advised that such intensity can lead to surface and flash flooding around streams, gullies, and poorly draining urban areas. Driving conditions are expected to become “extremely hazardous,” with reduced visibility and potential water pooling on roads.

The timing threatens to disrupt a raft of outdoor festivities and travel plans for one of the busiest nights of the year. Emergency services are urging people to reconsider non-essential travel in affected areas, check road closures, and have a plan to seek shelter quickly if severe weather strikes during celebrations.

In a contrast of fortunes, residents and holidaymakers in Hawke’s Bay, who have endured a week of persistent rain, can finally anticipate a drier evening. The forecast break in the weather offers a welcome window for outdoor gatherings and a clearer view of any potential midnight fireworks displays.

The Auckland Emergency Management has reiterated standard advice for severe thunderstorms: secure loose outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel, never drive through floodwaters, and stay indoors away from windows during the most intense activity.

People are encouraged to monitor official MetService updates and local civil defence channels for the latest information.

As the region prepares to ring in the New Year, the mood for many will be dictated by the skies, with safety authorities hoping the public prioritises caution over celebration during the passing storms.

Inquest rules Tufuenga death as murder; Police launch investigation

By
Kalino Latu
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An inquest has ruled that the death of a woman at Tufuenga was a case of murder.

A composite image showing three photographs of Lile Pomale taken at different stages of her life, from early childhood to shortly before her death.

The death of 44-year-old Lile Pomale is now the subject of a police investigation, following the release of an inquest report to the media this morning.

The report found that Pomale is believed to have died sometime between 1.30am on November 26 and November 30.

The timeframe reflects the available medical and evidentiary findings presented during the inquest.

Pomale’s death drew public attention after a relative alleged on social media that she had been murdered.

She was well known online and often recognised in Nukuʻalofa, where she was known to greet people and take selfies with them.

The inquest was led by Senior Magistrate Tevita Fukofuka and included medical findings from pathologist Dr Siale ‘Akauʻola.

According to the report, the inquest file — including sworn testimonies, official documents, medical findings, photographic evidence, and a site visit to the location where the body was found — has been submitted to the Attorney General and the Registrar of the Supreme Court for further action.

Pomale was reported to be a mother with children.

She was buried at Kalevalio Cemetery in Maʻufanga, according to reports.

PM Fakafanua’s claim of Cabinet ‘consultation’ questioned after former Prime Minister disputes involvement

By
Kalino Latu
-

What was presented to the public as a consultative and unifying process for forming Tonga’s new government is now being described by key participants as a one-way notification rather than a genuine dialogue.

Dr ‘Aisake Eke (left) and Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua

Last week, Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua announced that he had submitted his list of Cabinet ministers to the King for appointment, stating in a press release that the decision followed “careful consideration and consultation, which included members of parliament and the former Prime Minister.”

The statement was also reflected in media reporting, including a Kaniva News article titled “PM Fakafanua seeks rival Dr Eke’s counsel before submitting Cabinet picks to King,” which was based on the Prime Minister’s Office press release.

The statement was issued in English, followed by a Tongan version a few hours later. In the Tongan-language version, the term “consultation” appears to have been translated as “fakataha”, a commonly used Tongan word meaning a meeting or gathering.

It said: “Na’e fakahoko eni hili ‘a hono vakavakai’i lelei mo e ngaahi fakataha ‘o kau ai ‘a e kau mēmipa ‘o e Fale Aleá pea pehē ki he Palēmia malolo.”

Meaning Under Scrutiny

The translation of “consultation” as fakataha has been questioned by critics, who say the term does not clearly convey the idea of seeking advice, a distinction now central to the dispute over whether genuine consultation occurred.

According to the Oxford Dictionary, “consultation” is defined as the action or process of formally consulting or discussing, and also as a meeting with an expert or professional in order to seek advice.

The definition has added to scrutiny over how the term was used in the Prime Minister’s Office statement.

Eke Rejects Characterisation

In a written response sent to Kaniva News, former Prime Minister Dr ‘Aisake Eke said the characterisation of his involvement as “consultation” was inaccurate and “misleading.”

Eke said he met with Prime Minister Fakafanua, but the nobleman only informed him that the Cabinet had already been selected and that no ministerial positions would be allocated to MPs aligned with his team.

Eke said: “When we met he informed me that he had selected his Cabinet ministers consisting of 12 members, with 1 minister to be drawn from outside ( of the 26 MPs), and the rest of the 11 ministers from his supporters ( those MPs who voted for him as PM).”

“He did not seek my counsel nor consult me on the members of his new Cabinet.”

“Given the truth of what happened in my meeting with the PM, it is clear that the PMO press release that I was consulted, and your article, based on PMO Press Release, of seeking my counsel are both “misleading” the public at best,” Eke said.

He said it was “very unfortunate and sad” that the Prime Minister’s Office press release gave the impression that he had provided input into the selection of the new Cabinet when, he said, this was not the case.

Constitutional Right, Ethical Question

Eke acknowledged that the Prime Minister “has the constitutional right to [select] his Cabinet ministers and recommend them to His Majesty,” but said he saw no need for the process to be described in a way that, in his view, suggested broader consultation than had occurred.

He added that, despite his concerns, he wished the Prime Minister and his Cabinet well.

“We all wish to have a good government taking us forward, and our best wishes to the PM and his Cabinet as well,” Eke said.

MP Accounts Differ

While the Prime Minister’s Office said the consultation “included members of parliament”, several MPs told Kaniva News they did not attend any meeting with the Prime Minister regarding the formation of his Cabinet.

Those MPs, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the statement would have been clearer had it specified that the Prime Minister met with only some members, rather than implying broader consultation across Parliament.

Unite or Divide

Since his election this month, Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua has told the media that he is prioritising the unification of Parliament’s 26 members.

He suggested selecting a merit-based Cabinet, irrespective of how MPs voted for him.

“If we are to unite Tonga we will have to start in parliament,” an RNZ report quoted him as saying.

However, he also told ABC News he considered leaving rivals out to form a strong opposition to hold the government to account.

Undelivered and faulty services frustrate celebrants as Takuilau and Lavengamālie Colleges mark anniversaries

By
Kalino Latu
-

Nuku’alofa, Tonga – Celebrations at two college anniversaries in Tonga last week brought both joy and frustration for attendees, highlighting ongoing concerns about the reliability of paid services in the country and its diasporic community.

Ana Lōpeti’s anniversary garments, reportedly misaligned and poorly made, highlight ongoing issues with undelivered or substandard paid services in Tonga.

Takuilau College marked its 50th golden jubilee, while Lavengamālie College celebrated its 45th anniversary.

The milestones were attended by students, alumni, staff, and community members, both local and from the diaspora, eager to celebrate the schools’ histories and achievements.

However, celebrants at Takuilau College were left disappointed after a roasting pig service in Haveluloto, Tongatapu, failed to deliver as promised.

Sitenili Langi shared his experience on Facebook, saying he had contracted the service to roast four piglets for the celebration and paid $1,600 in advance.

“We were waiting with the table set for the pigs when we were told there was nothing to serve,” he wrote, expressing frustration.

More people also vented their frustration on Christmas Day, raising complaints that the service failed to deliver pigs they had paid to have roasted.

A person claiming to represent the service posted on Facebook, offering excuses that the individual responsible for roasting the pigs had not shown up. The post drew angry responses from commenters, some calling the explanation “lies” and “pathetic.”

Meanwhile, a Tongan woman in Sydney, Australia, expressed frustration as she prepared to travel to Tonga to attend the Takuilau celebration.

Ana Lōpeti said she paid $400 to a Tongan seamstress in Mount Druitt to sew clothing for the anniversary, but when she received the garments, they were poorly made.

“The sewing patterns were misaligned and problematic. I requested a refund, but they insisted I settle the payment and even posted negative comments. Thank you—I’ve learned a lot from this experience,” Mrs Lopeti wrote in Tongan.

The incidents for the Takuilau celebrants are the latest in a series of complaints regarding undelivered paid services in Tonga.

Previously, a floral garland and necklace stringing service in Tongatapu sparked discontent when Tongan diaspora visitors arrived for cultural events, only to find their pre-ordered garlands had not been prepared.

The service reportedly gave multiple excuses but failed to deliver the products for which clients had already paid.

Facebook apology following apparent child abuse video draws attention to widespread violence against children in Tonga

By
Kalino Latu
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Nukuʻalofa, Tonga – A public apology posted on Facebook by a parent has renewed national attention on violence against women and children in Tonga, following the circulation of videos online last week that appear to show the alleged mistreatment of a young child.

The incident has sparked widespread public concern and calls for intervention.

The videos, which were widely shared on social media, appear to show a couple socialising at a beach while accompanied by a young child. The woman was seen drinking from what appeared to be a bottle.

In one clip, a man is seen behaving aggressively toward the child, who appears visibly distressed and seeks protection.

Another video appears to show the same woman driving a vehicle, stopping, before speaking to the man from outside the car.

The footage prompted strong reactions online, with many social media users calling on authorities to investigate the matter.

Newly elected Member of Parliament Fane Fituafe shared one of the videos on Facebook and tagged Women and Children Crisis Centre (WCCC) director Ofa Likiliki, urging the organisation to look closely into the incident.

The post further amplified public calls for accountability and child protection.

The apology issued on Facebook this morning, believed to be from one of the parents involved, did not address the allegations in detail but followed days of public backlash.

Kaniva News has chosen not to identify those involved to protect the privacy and safety of the child.

The apology claims that the police approached the parents following the incident; however, the police have not yet released an official statement.

Violence Remains Widespread

The incident comes as the WCCC has expressed deep concern over findings from the newly released Tonga 2024 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), which show that violence against women and children remains widespread across the country.

According to the national survey which was released in October:

  • 86.1 percent of children aged 1–14 years experienced physical punishment and/or psychological aggression by household members in the past month.
  • 33.8 percent of women aged 15–49 years experienced physical, sexual, or psychological violence by an intimate partner within the past year.

The MICS is a global survey initiative developed by UNICEF and the largest source of statistically robust and internationally comparable data on women and children worldwide. It was conducted in Tonga by the Department of Statistics.

The findings were also welcomed by the WCCC.

The organisation said: “This is a momentous milestone for Tonga—one that places the protection, wellbeing, and future of every Tongan child at the centre of our national commitment. The policy represents years of hard work, dedication, and collaboration among government agencies, civil society, and community partners.”

Jeffrey R Holland, next in line to lead LDS Church, dies at 85, mourned by Tongans

By
Kalino Latu
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Nukuʻalofa, Tonga – President Jeffrey R. Holland, one of the most senior leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a figure well known to church members in Tonga, has died at the age of 85, the church announced.

He was reported to be next in line to lead the Church.

President Holland, who served as president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, died on December 27 from complications associated with kidney disease.

The LDS Church is the second-largest Christian denomination in Tonga, with thousands of members across the Kingdom.

President Holland was a familiar and respected figure among Tongan Latter-day Saints, many of whom recall his teachings, conference messages, and emphasis on faith, education, and service.

MP Fane Fituʻafe, who is also a member of the LDS Church, paid tribute to the leader’s death on Facebook.

Known for his powerful oratory and compassionate leadership, President Holland travelled widely during his ministry, teaching and testifying of Jesus Christ to members around the world.

Church leaders said he consistently expressed his belief that the “gospel of Jesus Christ is personally precious, everlastingly hopeful and eternally true.”

An educator by training, President Holland inspired generations of members, including many in the Pacific, through his general conference addresses, devotional talks, missionary messages, and writings. His influence extended beyond the pulpit into education and leadership development within the church.

In addition to nearly three decades of service as an Apostle, President Holland held several senior roles, including General Authority Seventy, the ninth president of Brigham Young University, commissioner of the Church Educational System, and dean of the BYU College of Religious Education. His leadership helped shape church education programs that have benefited many Tongan students and families.

Visa Restrictions Impact

President Holland’s death comes at a time when many Tongan members of the Church are facing uncertainty following visa restrictions imposed by the Trump administration, which affect visitor, education, and business visas for Tongans.

Brigham Young University–Hawaiʻi, an institution operated by the church, has long been a key pathway for higher education for Tongan Latter-day Saint students.

As previously reported by Kaniva News, Professor Tevita Kaʻili of the university said Tongan students make up the second-largest international student group at BYU–Hawaiʻi.

Professor Kaʻili noted that new enrolment figures for the coming academic year show a decline in the number of Tongan students, a trend he attributed to the visa restrictions.

For many Tongan Latter-day Saints, President Holland was closely associated with the church’s emphasis on education, faith, and global inclusion, values that continue to resonate strongly as the community navigates current challenges.

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