Nuku’alofa—Health officials in Tonga are conducting health checks on travellers from outer islands to Vava’u as a precautionary measure during the Free Church of Tonga’s annual conference.
Tonga Health Authorities Screen Travellers as Dengue Cases Climb to 793. Photo/Ministry of Health (Facebook)
The move comes as the country battles a growing dengue fever outbreak, which has so far claimed three lives.
As of Monday’s latest update, the total number of dengue cases has reached 793, with 417 reported in Tongatapu and 310 in Vava’u.
No new deaths have been recorded as of today.
The age group most affected by the outbreak is 10 to 19 years old, with the youngest case being a two-month-old baby.
Three patients remain hospitalised at Vaiola Hospital in stable condition.
The Ministry of Health is urging the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites around homes and schools to curb the spread of the virus.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, particularly with increased travel for the religious gathering.
Preventive measures, including fumigation and public awareness campaigns, are being intensified to reduce further transmission.
Health officials advise residents to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, or joint pain.
His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukālala of Tonga, who also serves as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for His Majesty’s Armed Forces, recently concluded a fruitful visit to Shandong, China, further strengthening bilateral relations.
His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukalala of Tonga meets with Shandong provincial leaders during his official visit, strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, climate action and cultural exchange
The trip underscored the growing partnership between China and Tonga in key areas such as education, healthcare, climate resilience, and industrial development.
During his stay, the Crown Prince attended the opening ceremony of the Shandong International Friendship Cities Conference for Cooperation and Development in Jinan, where he delivered remarks highlighting Shandong’s vital support for Tonga in critical sectors.
He emphasised the importance of people-to-people exchanges in fostering long-term collaboration and mutual understanding between the two nations.
A significant part of the visit was dedicated to exploring ties between Tonga’s Vava’u and its sister city, Liaocheng. The Crown Prince toured Zhongtong Bus Co., a leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles, to discuss potential cooperation in green transportation.
He also visited the Pacific Island Countries Research Centre and the China-Pacific Island Countries Climate Change Cooperation Centre, where discussions focused on enhancing joint efforts in climate adaptation and sustainable development.
In Jinan, the Crown Prince made a special stop at Shandong University QILU Hospital, where he explored opportunities for deeper medical collaboration.
This visit is expected to facilitate knowledge exchange and healthcare improvements for Tonga.
The successful trip marks another milestone in China-Tonga relations, with Shandong playing a central role in advancing practical cooperation.
Both sides expressed optimism for future collaboration, reinforcing their commitment to a stronger and more prosperous partnership.
Nuku’alofa, Tonga – His Excellency Mr Brek Batley, Australian High Commissioner to the Kingdom of Tonga, has handed over TOP$1.2 million in military equipment to support Tonga’s participation in next month’s Exercise Talisman Sabre, Australia’s largest international defence exercise.
Members of His Majesty’s Armed Forces inspect new gear funded by Australia – the first time Tonga will participate in Talisman Sabre with its own equipment. Photo/ Facebook (Australia in Tonga)
For the first time, Tonga will deploy with its own kit, marking a significant step in the nation’s defence capabilities.
The 43-strong contingent, led by Major Kaufusihema (Hammer) Palefau, includes female nurses and medics, another first for Tonga’s military representation.
HC Batley expressed his excitement at meeting the HMAF soldiers, who will train alongside forces from Australia, the US, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand.
The event also highlighted the strong Australia-Tonga defence partnership, with Brigadier Lord Fielakepa praising the collaboration.
This follows a Chinese military task group, including three warships, conducting live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea, the body of water between Australia and New Zealand, in late February.
The exercises raised concerns in both nations, particularly as they took place within Australia’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
The drills, which surprised many Pacific Island nations, prompted commercial flight diversions due to safety precautions.
While China did not violate international law, the activities drew criticism for providing inadequate advance notice and for their unusually southern location.
I want to express my serious concern about the sudden rise in the Tonga drug epidemic in 2025.
Our communities are increasingly affected by the trafficking of illicit drugs, especially methamphetamine, which is seriously harming families, youth, and public health.
The apparent easy access to these illegal drugs, coupled with the lack of adequate rehabilitation treatment and prevention education, has led to higher addiction and social problems.
A growing number of teenagers are succumbing to this epidemic, turning to drugs as an escape from their difficulties.
It is important that the government, healthcare professionals, and community organisations collaborate to execute efficient prevention programs, enhance border controls, and ensure treatment remains accessible.
Prompt and strong action is needed to safeguard our society and avoid further harm to our country.
Let us act immediately now to renew hope and create a healthier Tonga.
Domestic violence has been a crisis that the government of Tonga should pay attention to it.
In some families, individuals struggle silently while the survivors endure the consequences of domestic violence.
This physical violence mostly happens to women and children. They are suffering without any protection or support.
In many cases, victims remained silent due to shame and societal judgment.
This issue needs to be addressed as many people have experienced it.
Therefore, for the time being, we should make a change solely for Tonga’s sake. Even if we may not be there in the future, this change should serve the victims and ensure future generations are aware of it. In that case, social institutions must take a stand on this matter.
Therefore, the government, churches, and communities must address domestic violence. They need to combat this negative behaviour by supporting affected individuals in taking action.
The Women and Children Crisis Centre must raise awareness and gain support from the government to combat domestic violence.
We should stand together, cooperate, and challenge domestic violence.
UPDATED on May 29 – The Fielakepa family’s longstanding dispute has taken a new turn, with fresh allegations of a military cover-up now adding to the noble title controversy that has tarnished the family’s reputation.
Lōpeti Aleamotu’a (L) and current Lord Fielakepa
It follows a previous bitter court battle over the Fielakepa noble title, which saw a former Chief Justice rule that the King had erred in his appointment. The court case also featured explosive claims denying Lōpeti’s eldest brother’s biological lineage and the unusual circumstance of their mother refusing to allow the eldest son to take a DNA test to prove his paternity.
After securing legal counsel to revive his nine-year transparency battle, Lōpeti Aleamotu‘a has hit a new roadblock, shifting the dispute’s focus squarely onto his uncle, Lord Fielakepa, the HMAF’s top general during his 2016 dismissal
According to reports, Lōpeti held the view that Lord Fielakepa had allegedly pressed the King to remove him, but his efforts were unsuccessful.
Previous dispute
In the latest episode, it has been reported that despite multiple formal requests through legal channels, HMAF continues withholding Lōpeti’s complete service records, offering only a disputed “summary of facts” earlier this year.
Lōpeti’s latest attempt comes after the HMAF ordered him to return from Australia in 2016 while he was there to undergo a course of studies with the Australian Maritime College in Launceston, Tasmania, Tongan veteran publisher Kalafi Moala reported on Talanoa ‘o Tonga online.
The report alleged that Lōpeti was told to return home “due to administrative and disciplinary issues that have not been settled in Tonga.”
Since then, he has pushed for the HMAF to explain these issues in detail, as he was unaware of any, but has received no clear answers.
The report said his lawyer, Joycelyn Sikalu Lomu of Fakatoukatea Law Firm, has reportedly documented at least four unanswered requests dating back to 2016 seeking clarification about the investigation that led to his termination.
According to the report, HMAF later responded through the Solicitor General Sione Sisifa on 2 May 2025, declining Lopeti’s request to access his employment records.
It was claimed that no reasons were provided except that “it was against HMAF Policy.”
Kaniva News could not reach Lord Fielakepa or HMAF representatives for comment.
Hereditary title dispute
Lōpeti is the younger brother of Tupou Tongaliuaki Filo’aulo Aleamotu‘a, who had taken the current Lord Fielakepa to court in an effort to reclaim the family title.
In 2016, Tonga’s Land Court ruled that Tupou should inherit the title Fielakepa after the death of the late Baron Fielakepa.
The ruling came after His Majesty King Tupou VI conferred the title on Tupou’s uncle, Tongapo’uli Aleamotu’a, the current Fielakepa, in 2015.
Tongapo’uli’s eldest brother, the late Baron Fielakepa, died in 2013 without an heir.
Mosese Taulupe Aleamotu’a, Tupou’s father, was next in line to the title. But Taulupe died in 2007, while his eldest brother, Baron Fielakepa, inherited the title.
As Kaniva News previously reported, Lord Justice Michael Scott ruled, December 4, 2016 that His Majesty had erred when he conferred the title Fielakepa on Tongapo’uli.
Mr Justice Scott said it was evident that the information provided to His Majesty regarding who should inherit the title was incorrect.
He said Tupou was the rightful heir to the Fielakepa title and his name should be published as such in the Government Gazette.
Mr Justice Scott also ruled that registering Tongapo’uli’s name as a trustee after the Late Baron Fielakepa’s death on the grounds that Tupou was not 21 was wrong because Tupou was 21 years old at the time.
However, under Tonga’s constitution, the King retains absolute discretion in conferring hereditary noble titles. In this instance, despite Justice Scott’s ruling, His Majesty, according to the constitution clause 50 (2), maintained his decision to award the Fielakepa title to Tongapo’uli.
DNA Test Controversy
It had been revealed at the time that Tongapo’uli claimed in court that Tupou was not the biological son of Taulupe, his older brother.
He claimed Tupou’s father was ‘Atunaisa Fetokai of Haveluloto.
This was denied by Tupou and his mother, Mele Simiki Aleamotu’a, in court.
Tupou told the court he would voluntarily provide a DNA test to prove his paternity.
His mother told the court she did not want his son to take a DNA test.
After Fielakepa appealed the Land Court’s decision in favour of his nephew, the Privy Council rejected the appeal. The Privy Council also ruled that his nephew was the rightful heir to the Fielekap title.
The Privy Council also noted that while modern scientific methods like DNA testing could reliably resolve such disputes, current law prohibits courts from compelling anyone to submit to DNA testing.
NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga – Lord Lasike, the Tongan noble who battled to retain his hereditary title after a weapons conviction barred him from Parliament, has died.
Lord Lasike
His political career was marked by both controversy and resilience.
First elected to the Tongan Legislative Assembly in a 2005 by-election as a noble representative, Lasike was re-elected in 2008 and 2010, cementing his place in the kingdom’s politics.
However, his tenure faced turbulence due to legal troubles.
On 9 July 2012, he was convicted of illegally possessing ammunition and fined US$280, resulting in his suspension from Parliament.
The Tongan Court of Appeal later overturned the conviction, saving his noble title, which would have been revoked under Tongan law if the ruling had stood.
A polarising figure, Lasike drew both admiration for his political service and criticism over his legal issues.
Beyond politics, he was a well-known social figure, actively participating in the Fōfō’anga kava club, where he was often seen playing guitar and singing during gatherings.
Calls are growing for Tongan-born Wallabies prop Taniela Tupou to be given a chance to reignite his career.
Legendary Tongan-Australian prop Sekope Kepu has declared that the powerhouse forward remains a key pillar for Australia’s rugby future, despite his recent struggles.
The call comes as the British & Irish Lions prepare to tour Australia, with Tupou’s place in the squad uncertain due to a “mid-career slump” in form.
However, Kepu, now a coach for the First Nations and Pasifika XV, insists the man nicknamed “Tongan Thor” is far from finished, the Australian media reported.
Kepu, who recently retired after a storied career with the Wallabies and Moana Pasifika, believes Tupou’s best rugby is still ahead of him.
“There’s good young guys coming through Australian rugby and a couple of the Reds boys, but I think with Allan [Alaalatoa] and Taniela there, those are the two cornerstones of Australian rugby at the moment in terms of anchoring that scrum,” Kepu reportedly said.
“And seeing the way that Allan’s been playing, I think they’ll play a crucial part of that.
Tupou, who has been open about his struggles this season, admitted he is “at peace” if not selected for the Lions series.
However, many in the Tongan and Pasifika rugby community believe his inclusion could be a game-changer.
With the First Nations and Pasifika XV set to face the Lions in Melbourne, the match also highlights the growing influence of Pasifika players in global rugby.
Tupou’s potential return to form could boost the Wallabies and inspire young Tongan athletes.
As selectors weigh their options, all eyes will be on whether Tupou gets the chance to prove himself before the Lions series.
Tonga has been awarded Best Country Booth at the inaugural Circularity, Innovation, Recovery, Culture, Learning, and Environment (CIRCLE) Expo 2025 in Samoa, highlighting its groundbreaking efforts in asbestos removal—a key initiative protecting communities from hazardous materials.
Tonga wins Best Country Booth at CIRCLE Expo 2025
The PacWastePlus Project, implemented by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), partnered with Tonga’s Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC) to safely remove and dispose of 2,622.79 m² of non-friable asbestos from five government buildings.
Three of the cleared buildings have been re-roofed and remain in use, while the other two derelict structures were secured to prevent exposure.
As part of the project, Tonga also adopted an Asbestos Management Code of Practice (AMCOP), ensuring safe handling and supervision of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) nationwide.
At the CIRCLE Expo, held at Taumeasina Island Resort, Tonga’s booth showcased the PacWastePlus initiative’s real-world impact.
Ms. Sulieti Hufanga-Ofa from MEIDECC said: “Here at the CIRCLE Expo, there are a lot of success stories, but I can say and I think the asbestos removal project is the highlight from this PacWastePlus project for us in Tonga because of the impact it has had on the protection of lives and our communities.”
She said asbestos is one of the riskiest wastes in the Pacific, and through this project, we’ve successfully removed it, trained personnel, and established a code of practice.
“We are extremely grateful for the work done and its impact on saving lives and protecting our community against the harmful impacts of such waste.”
The CIRCLE Expo brings together Pacific nations to share innovations in sustainability, waste management, and environmental protection. Tonga’s recognition underscores its leadership in addressing critical health and environmental challenges.
With this milestone, Tonga sets an example for the region, proving that collaborative efforts can lead to safer, healthier communities
Police have asked for the public’s help to identify a man who allegedly assaulted a woman on an Auckland street earlier this month.
A CCTV image of the man sought by police. (Source: Supplied)
Police said the incident occurred after midnight on May 9 when the victim and offender walked down Sutton Crescent in Papatoetoe together.
At some point, an argument broke out between the pair, which continued as they walked towards Kolmar Road.
“The female victim attempted to walk away from the male offender but was assaulted.”
Detective Senior Sergeant Hayward said the force of the assault knocked the woman to the ground, where the man continued his assault, using “extreme force”.
A CCTV image of the man sought by police. (Source: Supplied)
According to police, CCTV footage showed the man walking away from the scene after the assault.
The woman was taken to Middlemore Hospital with serious injuries and was still recovering from the attack.
Hayward said a man was still being sought in connection with the assault, and despite a “thorough area canvass”, no witnesses had been identified.
This morning, police released CCTV images of the man and asked for the public’s help to identify him.
“There is no place for this extreme violence in the community, and I’m confident someone will know who this man is,” Hayward said.
“We need to hear from you.”
Anyone with information was asked to call police on 105.
