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COMMENTARY: Prime Minister Pōhiva warned about use of circulars, said they muzzled Opposition MPs

By
Kalino Latu
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EDITOR’S NOTE: This commentary was edited to reflect the fact that the response from the Deputy Clerk was meant to say that the Parliament using the circular was a normal means of communication.

COMMENTARY: It is time for the practice of using circulars to make decisions in Parliament was reviewed.

Circulars should only be used on agendas that are urgent.

They should not be used on important issues such as pay rises for Parliamentarians.

Such issues should be properly debated in the House so that they can be recorded in the minutes for the public to read and also broadcast for people to listen.

As Kaniva News reported yesterday, the government’s use of a circular to canvas MPs’ views on a pay rise has been called into question.

However, the Legislative Assembly’s Deputy Clerk, Dr Sione Vikilani, said the circular was a normal means of communication approved by the House and any information sent through it was legal.

In Tongan he said: “Ko e tohi ‘avetakai ko e founga ngāue pe ‘oku ‘ataa ke ngaue’aki pea ‘oku ‘ikai ke ta’efakalao ha tu’utu’uni ‘i hono fakahoko ‘i he founga koia”.

Dr Vikilani did not respond to a question asking why a circular was used to ballot the pay hike and not a face-to-face voting in the House.

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In 2018 Tonga’s former Prime Minister, the late ‘Akilisi Pōhiva, warned that using circulars in Parliament was open to abuse.

Speaking to Kaniva News, Pōhiva said the use of circulars was normal but did not allow for discussion.

MPs, especially the Opposition, could not debate whatever agenda was being circulated.

He said that traditionally Speakers and the Noble’s representatives, who were mostly the majority  in the House, used it to ballot issues they wanted to be decided in their favour.

The late Prime Minister’s comments were made during an interview in 2018 about the decision to approve an invitation from the Tonga Rugby League for a Parliament delegation to attend a match.

The decision was adopted through a circular, by collective resolution of Parliament.

Prime Minister Pōhiva’s concerns are just as relevant today as they were four years ago.

Debates and voting in the House must be open so that all citizens can see how their MPs voted and debate can be held in public.

This was illustrated in our story yesterday when Dr Vikilani would not say how MPs voted on the circular. 

A Parliament with secrets is not truly democratic.

Tonga Justice warns over false information in birth, death and marriage registrations

By
Kaniva Staff
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Nuku’alofa, Tonga — The Registrar General’s Office has issued a public warning reminding Tongans that providing false information when registering births, deaths or marriages is a criminal offence under the new Civil Registration and Digital Identification Act 2025.

In a series of public notices released today, the Office of the Registrar General highlighted penalties under Sections 63 and 64 of the Act, which deal with false information relating to marriages, births, and deaths.

The notices warn that any person who knowingly and wilfully provides false information in order to obtain a marriage licence, or to register a birth or death, commits an offence and may face prosecution.

Under the law, a person convicted of providing false information may be sentenced to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, fined up to T$10,000, or both.

The Registrar General’s Office said the provisions are intended to protect the integrity of Tonga’s civil registration system, which records vital life events including births, deaths and marriages.

The notices specifically caution members of the public against deliberately providing incorrect details during registration processes, stressing that information submitted to the Civil Register must be accurate and truthful.

The warning forms part of public awareness efforts following the enactment of the Civil Registration and Digital Identification Act 2025, which established a modern framework for civil registration and digital identification in Tonga.

The Act provides for the maintenance of the national Civil Register and the administration of birth, death and marriage records throughout the Kingdom.

Members of the public seeking information on registration requirements are encouraged to contact the Registrar General’s Office or visit the Ministry of Justice for guidance before submitting applications.

Customs uncover 100kg cocaine worth $35m hidden in Tauranga container

By
Kaniva Staff
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By RNZ

Customs officers have seized an estimated 100kg of cocaine worth up to $35 million after it was discovered hidden inside a shipping container at the Port of Tauranga.

The drugs were found on Monday during a routine inspection of a refrigerated container carrying legitimate goods that had travelled from Chile via Peru, Colombia and Panama before arriving in New Zealand.

Customs said officers had identified the container as a potential risk before it arrived in the country as part of standard screening procedures for incoming cargo.

An x-ray scan revealed irregularities in a stack of boxes near the container doors, a concealment technique commonly known as “rip-on, rip-off”, where drugs are secretly added to legitimate shipments without the knowledge of the importer.

A detailed search uncovered 10 boxes containing a total of 100 bricks of cocaine. The bricks were branded “PRADA”, and further testing confirmed they contained cocaine.

Customs maritime manager Robert Smith said the seizure highlighted the ongoing efforts of transnational organised crime groups to exploit international supply chains.

“Transnational serious organised crime groups are continuously testing border security and supply chains globally, looking for vulnerabilities they can exploit,” he said.

“This seizure highlights our ability to detect those efforts and intervene before harm reaches our communities.”

Smith said Customs officers screened hundreds of shipping containers arriving through New Zealand ports each week.

“Through sustained operational activity, sharper risk assessment, and continued investment in targeting and detection technology, Customs is raising the cost, complexity, and risk for criminal groups seeking to operate here.”

Enquiries into the shipment are ongoing.

This story was first published on rnz.co.nz

Miss Heilala 2026 organisers warn of fake contestant posts after registrations close

By
Kalino Latu
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Nuku’alofa, Tonga — Miss Heilala organisers are warning the public about fake contestant announcements circulating online, saying several unauthorised posts have falsely claimed to reveal participants ahead of official confirmation.

Tonga’s Miss Heilala 2025–2026, Siosi’ana Patricia Taumoepeau

In a statement on its official platforms, the committee said: “We have noticed several fake Miss Heilala contestant announcements circulating online.”

It stressed the posts are not legitimate, with some misusing the Miss Heilala and Tonga Tourism logos without permission.

Organisers urged the public not to create, share, or engage with such content, warning it risks confusion and undermines the recognition of officially confirmed contestants.

“Please do not create or share unofficial contestant announcements. Let’s allow our official contestants the spotlight, recognition, and support they deserve,” the statement said.

They reiterated that all contestant announcements will be made only through verified pageant channels.

Registrations for the 2026 Miss Heilala Pageant closed at 4.30pm on 5 June, with organisers confirming no further applications will be accepted as the event moves into its next phase.

The Heilala Festival remains one of Tonga’s leading cultural events, with the Miss Heilala Pageant a central highlight of the annual celebrations.

Two packages of ‘ice’ discovered at Vavaʻu beach, site of $2.3m cocaine find in 2021

By
Kalino Latu
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Nearly five years after cocaine packages washed ashore at Hōleva and Haʻalaufuli beaches in Vavaʻu, two bags of what has been described as “ice” were discovered on Sunday.

Photo released by Tonga Police in July 2021 showing cocaine packages worth about $2.3 million paʻanga that washed up on beaches at Hōleva and Haʻalaufuli in Vavaʻu, prompting a major police search. Photo/Tonga Police

Neiafu town officer Vava Lapota claimed that the two packages of “ice” were discovered by residents and later handed over to the Neiafu Police.

Kaniva News has contacted Police for comment.

The details of the items and how they ended up on the beach are still unknown.

The discovery follows a major cocaine shipment that washed ashore in July 2021 at what is believed to be the same location.

In that incident, more than 14 kilograms of cocaine—estimated to have a street value of $2.3 million—washed up along the beaches of Hōleva and Haʻalaufuli, triggering a large-scale search by Tonga Police and the Navy.

At the time, Police warned: “There is possibility that more packages may turn up on the beach and we ask any members of the public to immediately contact Police if they found or knew anyone to have found further drugs,” said Detective Acting Deputy Commissioner Halatoa Taufa.

Taufa strongly reminded that anyone who has in their possession any of the washed-up drugs and failing to hand over to Police is a serious offence.

Eight people were later sentenced to prison terms ranging from three to 13.5 years for their opportunistic roles in handling blocks of cocaine from a large shipment that washed ashore at Ha’alaufuli’s ‘Otualea Beach.

PM Fakafanua warning

The reported drugs washing ashore come after suspected cocaine packages were found across islands in Fiji’s Lau Group last week.

Reports said the latest discovery adds to earlier finds in Moala, Kabara, and Moce.

Authorities believe recent rough sea conditions may have dislodged concealed packages, causing them to surface and wash ashore.

The developments in Fiji come shortly after Tonga’s Prime Minister, Lord Fakafanua, warned that Tonga must step up its alertness and preparedness to combat illicit drugs, citing increased trafficking in nearby Fiji.

Minister of Lands found guilty of breaching electoral law

By
Kalino Latu
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The Minister of Lands, Dr Taniela Fusimālohi, has been found guilty under the Electoral Act for electoral bribery, in a ruling expected to carry significant political and legal implications, according to a report by Kele‘a Voice.

While details of the case proceedings are yet to be fully released, the conviction signals the judiciary’s firm stance on upholding electoral integrity. .

Under the Electoral Act, a conviction for an electoral offence may result in penalties including fines, removal from office, or disqualification from holding public office, depending on the court’s final orders.

As the situation develops, more information is expected regarding sentencing and any potential appeals.

Pentagon revises religious codes, reclassifies LDS after backlash

By
Kaniva Staff
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The United States Department of Defence has revised its religious affiliation policy following backlash from lawmakers and faith leaders, issuing an updated framework that removes a broad “Christian” umbrella label and instead lists individual denominations — including The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — as distinct categories.

The update, released Monday, follows days of criticism after the Pentagon initially unveiled a streamlined list of religious affiliation codes that reduced more than 200 recognised faith categories to just 31.

The changes stem from a broader administrative overhaul aimed at simplifying how the military tracks the religious identities of service members. Defence officials said the previous system — which included more than 200 categories — had become “unmanageable” and inefficient for chaplain services.

Under the new framework, the number of classifications was dramatically reduced, with many smaller or less commonly used belief systems consolidated into broader categories such as “Other Religions” or “No Religion.”

Pentagon officials emphasised that the revision is intended to improve how chaplains anticipate and meet service members’ spiritual needs rather than determine the legitimacy of any faith.

Initial classification sparks controversy

In its initial announcement, the Pentagon grouped 21 denominations under a single “Christian” umbrella category. However, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) — despite being included in the overall list — was not placed within that Christian grouping.

The omission drew immediate criticism, particularly from members of the Utah congressional delegation and other Latter-day Saint leaders, who argued the designation misrepresented the faith’s identity.

Utah lawmakers, including Sens. Mike Lee and John Curtis, publicly challenged the classification, calling it “unacceptable” and urging the Pentagon to correct what they described as a mischaracterisation of a Christian faith tradition.

In public statements, lawmakers emphasised that Latter-day Saints identify as Christians and objected to what they viewed as government involvement in defining religious doctrine.

Following the backlash, members of the Utah delegation engaged directly with Pentagon officials and raised concerns at the highest levels, including conversations involving the president, according to reports surrounding the policy dispute.

The pressure led to a rapid reassessment within the Defence Department, culminating in a revised list of religious affiliation codes.

In its updated version, the Pentagon eliminated the overarching “Christian” category altogether and instead organised all faiths — including previously grouped denominations — as standalone entries.

The change effectively resolves the immediate dispute over classification by treating each denomination equally without assigning them to umbrella religious labels.

Under the revised structure, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints remains one of the officially recognised categories, alongside other Christian denominations such as Baptist, Catholic, and Methodist, as well as non-Christian faiths including Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism.

The controversy highlights broader tensions surrounding religious representation within the U.S. military, particularly as the Pentagon seeks to balance administrative efficiency with the diversity of beliefs among service members.

Rising Fiji drug busts and ‘proximity’ put Tonga on high alert, PM Fakafanua says

By
Kalino Latu
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Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua has raised concerns about Tonga’s vulnerability to regional drug trafficking, warning that a surge in large-scale drug busts in nearby Fiji highlights the need for heightened vigilance in Tonga.

Lord Fakafanua, the Prime Minister of Tonga

Speaking to local media last week, the Prime Minister said Pacific leaders had agreed to collaborate as a “network” to combat high levels of drug trafficking across regional waters.

He said the partnership would involve sharing information and intelligence among countries to strengthen enforcement efforts.

Lord Fakafanua added that regional attention is increasingly focused on the surge in drug trafficking in Fiji, noting that “Tonga’s proximity underscores the need for heightened preparedness.”

Tonga Escalates Drug Fight

The kingdom is continuing its ongoing battle against an illicit drugs crisis, which has led Parliament to pass legislation imposing the harshest penalties, including life imprisonment without parole for drug offenders.

The King also took a leading role by convening a national symposium and warning Parliament of its responsibility to address the drug crisis seriously.

Tonga is also introducing wastewater-based epidemiology, or sewage testing, to measure illicit drug use and track trafficking patterns within the country.

A recent ABC documentary on drug trafficking in the Pacific, which included Tonga, revealed that Tongan police conduct around 150 tactical operations each year targeting illicit drug activity.

It comes in the wake of a warning from the Prison Commissioner that Hu‘atolitoli Prison is facing mounting pressure, as a sharp rise in drug-related offences pushes inmate numbers beyond manageable levels.

Fiji Drug Crackdown Intensifies

Meanwhile, Fiji has become a focal point of major regional and international anti-drug operations amid a surge in transnational trafficking.

Recent developments include a 2.64-tonne cocaine seizure, a joint military crackdown that destroyed more than 47,000 marijuana plants, and ongoing court proceedings involving prominent local businessmen allegedly linked to international cartels.

While several Fijian nationals are awaiting court hearings on charges involving tonnes of cocaine and other illicit drugs, local media have reported growing concern over suspected cocaine packages washing ashore across islands in the Lau group last week.

The reports said the latest discovery adds to earlier finds in Moala, Kabara, and Moce.

Authorities believe recent rough sea conditions may have dislodged the hidden packages, causing them to surface and wash ashore.

Police investigate ‘Eua death as body sent to Tongatapu for post-mortem

By
Kalino Latu
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Authorities have confirmed that a police investigation is now underway into a recent death in ‘Eua, with no arrests made at this stage.

Po’ulia Lavelua

The deceased, identified as Po‘ulia Lavelua, a 46-year-old man, was found dead in ‘Esia village on the island of ‘Eua in late May 2026.

His body was reportedly discovered outside a community hall, prompting police to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, according to a source close to the deceased who spoke to Kaniva News.

As reported on May 30, an outpouring of tributes from family, friends, and members of the public flooded social media in the wake of his death.

He has been remembered as a devoted father and a loving husband, with many expressing their condolences and support for his family.

Police have confirmed that the case remains under active investigation, with no individuals taken into custody at this stage.

“The body of the deceased has since been transferred from ‘Eua to Tongatapu to undergo a post-mortem examination,” Police Chief Superintendent Halatoa Taufa told Kaniva News.

He said the results of the post-mortem will be crucial in determining the exact cause of death and are expected to provide further details surrounding the circumstances of the incident.

Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in, with family members sharing photos and updates on Facebook as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

Police are expected to provide updates as they continue efforts to establish the full circumstances surrounding Lavelua’s death.

Cook Strait ferry sailings cancelled, residents told to stay off beaches as swells up to 10.5m forecast in Wellington

By
Kaniva Staff
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Anya Fielding of RNZ

A state of emergency has been declared for Wellington’s Southern and Eastern wards ahead of huge swells expected to hit the coast over the next few days.

Swells on Wellington’s south coast in 2020.

MetService has issued a Heavy Swell Warning for Cape Terawhiti to Turakirae Head in Wellington and Turakirae Head to Mataikona in the Wairarapa.

A southerly weather system moving up the country is bringing the swells to Cook Strait from Monday evening through to Wednesday morning.

It says southerly combined waves could rise to 9.5-10.5 metres late Tuesday morning, before easing midday Wednesday, with a peak period of 13-15 seconds.

Cook Strait ferry sailings have been cancelled ahead of the swells.

Wellington City mayor Andrew Little declared the State of Emergency for the region’s Southern and Eastern wards late this afternoon.

In a statement, the Wellington City Council said it recommended that residents of South Coast waterfront properties and those who are concerned about flooding stay somewhere else tonight.

“Residents of the South Coast can expect extensive road closures on Tuesday 9 June. We require those in affected areas including pets be out of properties no later than 9am on Tuesday 9 June.

“An Emergency Assistance Centre has been set up at Wellington South Baptist church, 284 The Parade will be open from 9pm Monday 8 June for those who don’t have a place to go tonight.

Wellington Civil Defence spokesperson Dan Neely said the public should stay out of the water and avoid beaches and coastal areas, even if the weather looks fine.

“In 2020 a heavy swell event struck Wellington’s south coast with 5.5-metre waves pounding coastal suburbs, causing widespread damage and evacuations. Tomorrow, we expect the swells could be up to 8m around Wellington’s south coast, so we are preparing for a significant swell event and asking the public to do the same.

“The sun might be shining but these swells could bring debris and surface flooding to roads, especially around high tide at midday. The public is urged to avoid Wellington’s south coast roads, as well as coastal roads around Wairarapa. Extreme caution should be taken if you have to drive on these roads.”

Have you been affected? Share your stories and pictures with us at: iwitness@rnz.co.nz

Neely said emergency services, councils and partner agencies were working together to respond to the event.

All people living in affected areas have been issued the following advice:

If your home has been impacted by past swell and storm events or are in exposed coastlines prepare to self evacuate.
If you cannot arrange accommodation, call your local council for assistance.
If you are planning to say, prepare a grab bag with supplies relevant to your family in case you have to leave with short notice.
People living close to swell and surf exposed coastlines should be prepared for the possibility of waves flooding roads and leaving debris, with potential for road closures, and potential damage to property.
Move important items out of harm’s way, particularly if they are in low-lying garages. Bring pets inside.
Check on neighbours who might need some support.

‘Don’t take the dog for a walk’

Meteorologist Lewis Ferris said the weather system will affect the south coast of Wellington and Wairarapa and parts of the eastern coast of South Island.

The height and long period of the swells would cause them to carry a lot of energy and a greater potential to run up the beaches, he said.

“Tomorrow won’t be a good day to go out on any sort of southern coastlines, especially around Wellington. Don’t take the dog for a walk; don’t go just to see the large waves roll in,” he said.

Residents should heed local authorities’ warnings and not go out to the coast, he said. He said authorities might need to access the coast for sandbagging and other preparations.

The worst of the swells were expected during high tide at midday and early afternoon on Tuesday.

Strong wind watches are in place for parts of the lower North Island and the Otago coast.

Bluebridge’s website says the 8.30pm Wellington to Picton sailing on Monday has been cut, as have three services on Tuesday morning.

Interislander cancelled all its Tuesday sailings.

The ferry companies say they are contacting customers who will be moved onto the next available service.

An orange heavy swell warning kicks in from Cape Terawhiti to Turakirae Head from 6am Tuesday, lasting through to the same time Wednesday.

MetService is forecasting southerly combined waves rising to 7-8 metres by midday Tuesday, easing in the evening.

The same warning starts in Wairarapa from Turakirae Head to Mataikona from midnight on Monday through to noon on Wednesday.

“Southerly swell rising to 4 metres early Tuesday morning, then rapidly rising to 8-9 metres late Tuesday morning, easing below wave warning criteria Wednesday midday,” Metservice said.

A strong wind watch is also in place in coastal parts of Wairarapa and the Tararua District on Tuesday.

It is also in effect in coastal parts of Clutha and Dunedin from 9pm on Monday.

This story was first published on rnz.co.nz

Livestreamed farewell for slain Tongan-born ‘Alaipulotu ‘Ahio

By
Kaniva Staff
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A funeral service for ʻAlaipulotu ʻAhio is currently being livestreamed from Australia, drawing viewers from across the Pacific and beyond following his death in a fatal shooting last month.

‘Alaipulotu ‘Ahio. Photo/Screenshotted

The 28-year-old, a former associate of the Sydney drill rap group OneFour, was killed on the night of May 19, 2026, during what authorities described as a targeted shooting and stabbing ambush.

The attack occurred in the garage of a home in Canley Heights, in Sydney’s south-west. Four other men sustained injuries in the incident.

Police have yet to announce any arrests in connection with the killing, and investigations remain ongoing.

Large Turnout at Livestream

The funeral livestream shows a large gathering of mourners paying their respects, with cultural elements prominently displayed.

The coffin is draped in traditional Tongan fine mats and ngatu (tapa cloth), while many attendees are dressed in black and wearing ta‘ovala, the customary mourning attire.

A steady line of mourners can be seen approaching the casket to farewell the deceased.

The service comes after a legal challenge by ʻAhio’s mother, Savelina Fisiipeau ʻAhio, was dismissed by the New South Wales Supreme Court.

She had sought an urgent injunction to stop a mandatory post-mortem examination on cultural and religious grounds.

In her application, she requested that the autopsy either be blocked entirely or carried out without the removal or dissection of organs and tissue.

However, the court ruled against the application, allowing authorities to proceed with a full forensic examination as part of the homicide investigation.

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