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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.

Police hunt armed domestic violence suspect Viliami Tapaʻatoutai Naʻa

By
Kalino Latu
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Nukuʻalofa – Tonga Police have issued a public alert seeking urgent assistance from the public in locating a man wanted in connection with an ongoing domestic violence investigation.

A “Wanted Person” notice released by authorities identifies the individual as Viliami Tapaʻatoutai Naʻa, who is reported to be from Kolonga.

Police said they are actively seeking information on the suspect’s whereabouts as part of their investigation into the alleged incident.

Authorities have warned that the suspect is considered armed and potentially dangerous, urging members of the public not to approach him.

Instead, anyone who may have information is advised to contact police immediately.

“Tonga Police are seeking information regarding the whereabouts of the individual pictured,” the notice said.

Police have called on the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information that could assist in locating the suspect.

Members of the public with relevant information are urged to call 922 immediately or report to the nearest police station.

Authorities have not indicated how long the suspect has been wanted but emphasised that the matter remains an active investigation.

MP Piukala faces interference with justice charge revealed, could be jailed up to five years if convicted

By
Kalino Latu
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The charge against former Minister of Police Piveni Piukala—alleged to have assisted a man subject to a restraining order to leave Tonga—has now been confirmed as interference with the course of justice.

MP Piveni Piukala

Piukala is expected to appear in court this morning, Monday 25 May, following an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) into allegations he interfered in a court matter that allowed Mormon leader Pita Foliaki Hopate to leave the country.

This development was revealed by Piukala himself during a recent live stream broadcast on VPON Media.

Section 65 of the Criminal Offences Act states:

“Every person who conspires or attempts to interfere wrongfully in any manner with the course of justice in any matter, civil or criminal, shall be liable to imprisonment for any period not exceeding 5 years.”

Piukala said he was confident he had done nothing wrong, as alleged in the charge. He also appeared to mock the court, repeating a remark he made previously that the charge was “lighter than a cigarette paper,” referring to the very thin paper used to roll tobacco.

Court Order Remains Active

Authorities had earlier confirmed that Hopoate remains the subject of ongoing court proceedings, and that a formal order had been issued preventing him from departing Tonga.

The restraining order followed legal action brought by ʻEpalahame Taukeiʻaho, a member of their Mormon Church school alumni association.

It is understood that Hopoate is currently in the United States.

The case has attracted widespread public attention, raising serious concerns about the enforcement of court orders and the potential misuse of authority at the highest levels of government.

As previously reported by Kaniva News, the matter triggered intense public debate and exposed deep divisions across Tonga’s political and social landscape.

At the time the incident first emerged last year, former Minister of Customs Māteni Tapueluelu publicly criticised Mr Piukala, questioning what was seen as interference in matters under his ministry’s authority at the airport.

Lord Vaea—now Speaker of Parliament—also raised concerns at the time, criticising then-Prime Minister Dr ʻAisake Eke for not removing Mr Piukala from Cabinet earlier.

Dr Eke later confirmed that Mr Piukala resigned in December, citing pressure from the Anti-Corruption Commission Commissioner to allow the investigation to proceed independently.

As reported earlier, Mr Piukala has not denied assisting Mr Hopoate, maintaining publicly that he believed it was his duty as a Member of Parliament to help members of the public who approached him for assistance.

The case is expected to continue drawing strong public and political attention as it proceeds through the courts.

Tonga National University to explore when lotu helps — and when it harms

By
Kalino Latu
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Tonga — A public lecture at Tonga National University (TNU) next month is set to examine one of the country’s most sensitive and widely debated issues: the role of lotu in shaping both wellbeing and social challenges in Tongan society.

The lecture, titled “Lotu, Leadership, and Wellbeing: Lessons Learned from the Lotu Factor Project,” will be held on 26 June 2026 at the ECE Hall, Pahu Campus as part of the university’s PōTalatala Public Lecture series.

It will present findings from the Lotu Factor Project, a multi-year study funded by the Health Research Council of New Zealand examining the relationship between faith, leadership, health, and communal wellbeing across Pacific communities.

A statement published by the TNU says the study explores both the positive and more complex dimensions of religiosity within Pacific societies.

While lotu is recognised as a source of hope, belonging, resilience, and moral guidance, the project also examines concerns raised in public debate about forms of religiosity that may become socially divisive or contribute to harm.

Religion Debate In Tonga

The lecture comes amid continuing public discussion in Tonga over the role of religion in public life, governance, health, and social wellbeing.

At the centre of these debates is the constitutional recognition of the Sabbath Day, which traditionally requires Sunday to be observed as holy, restricting business operations and public activity. However, the law also provides exemptions allowing essential services — and, with Cabinet approval, certain businesses such as restaurants — to operate on Sundays.

Public debate has at times emerged over the implementation of these exemptions, including why some businesses are permitted to operate while others remain closed. Concerns have also periodically been raised about businesses allegedly trading without approval and reports of construction activities carried out on Sundays under special exemptions granted for urgent purposes.

Religious fundraising practices have also become part of broader community discussions in recent years. Critics have questioned whether heavy financial spending associated with annual church conferences and donations known as misinale may place pressure on families already facing economic hardship.

Health concerns linked to church-related food practices have likewise been discussed publicly. The Free Wesleyan Church had previously introduced measures to reduce the serving of heavy foods such as pork, fatty meats, and traditional high-carbohydrate meals during church events amid growing concern over non-communicable diseases.

Broader questions about the relationship between faith and social wellbeing have also increasingly featured in public discourse.

Although Tonga is widely regarded as one of the world’s most religious nations, some community commentators, researchers, and critics have questioned whether strong religious participation has consistently translated into wider social outcomes.

Issues frequently raised in these discussions include illicit drug activity, allegations of corruption, concerns over leadership accountability, and Tonga’s ongoing public health crisis involving high rates of diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

Questions have also been raised in public debate about the role of religion within state institutions, particularly as many government ministries incorporate regular prayer services into official programmes while concerns continue over public service delivery standards.

Community Invited to Engage

It is within this wider social context that the Lotu Factor Project seeks to contribute a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between faith, leadership, and wellbeing — including distinctions between what researchers describe as “life-giving faith” and forms of religiosity that may unintentionally contribute to harm or limitation.

Organisers say the lecture is intended to create space for open and informed dialogue about the role of lotu in contemporary Tongan society and its impact on individuals, communities, and national development.

The event is expected to attract church leaders, academics, health professionals, policymakers, and members of the public interested in how faith and leadership can better support collective wellbeing.

Among the lecture’s objectives are to:

  • present the research findings in an accessible way
  • stimulate critical discussion on the relationship between faith and wellbeing
  • encourage reflection on harmful versus life-giving expressions of religiosity
  • strengthen collaboration between churches, public institutions, and communities.

White House deadly shooting deepens anxiety among Tongans over U.S. green card crackdown

By
Kalino Latu
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A suspect was shot and killed after allegedly opening fire near the White House on Sunday, prompting a temporary lockdown of the presidential complex and a major security response in Washington, D.C.

U.S. authorities said Secret Service agents fatally shot the gunman after multiple shots were fired near the White House perimeter. A bystander was also reportedly injured during the incident. Security teams swiftly secured the area before the lockdown was later lifted.

Footage shared by ABC News correspondent Selina Wang captured the tense moments as gunfire erupted near the North Lawn, forcing journalists and bystanders to take cover.

The incident unfolded amid growing concern and heated debate within Tongan communities over a newly announced U.S. immigration policy that could significantly affect green card applicants currently living in the United States.

Immigration policy sparks division

The Trump administration recently announced a major policy shift under which adjustment of status applications inside the United States will only be approved in “extraordinary circumstances,” meaning many applicants may now be required to return to their home countries and complete processing through U.S. consular offices abroad.

The announcement has triggered intense discussion across Tongan social media platforms, exposing sharp divisions within the diaspora over immigration, legality, and fairness.

Supporters of President Donald Trump defended the move as a legitimate enforcement of immigration law and national sovereignty.

“If you want to become a permanent resident, you should follow the proper legal process,” one Tongan Trump supporter in Utah said. “America has laws, and they must be respected. This decision is about fairness and protecting the integrity of the system.”

Others argued the policy could help prioritise applicants who have waited overseas for years under existing immigration pathways.

“It might be tough, but it’s about doing things the right way,” another supporter said. “Many people have waited overseas for years. Why should others skip that process?”

However, critics within the Tongan diaspora strongly condemned the policy, describing it as harsh, disruptive, and potentially damaging for families already established in the United States.

“This is not just a policy shift — it’s a human issue,” a Tongan community advocate in the US said. “You’re asking people to leave their jobs, their children’s schools, and their homes without certainty they can return. That’s not fair.”

Others warned the requirement could expose families to long processing delays, financial hardship, and uncertainty over re-entry.

“It shows a lack of understanding of immigrant families,” another critic said. “Many Tongans follow the law and contribute to society. This kind of decision ignores the real impact on their lives.”

Tensions amplified by Washington shooting

Authorities have not indicated any connection between the White House shooting and the immigration policy announcement. However, the timing of both developments has heightened anxiety among Pacific communities closely following events in the United States.

Some Tongans said the dramatic security incident in Washington intensified an already tense atmosphere online.

“People are already feeling unsettled watching what’s happening in Washington,” one Auckland-based Tongan said. “Then this comes out — it just feels like everything is happening at once.”

The U.S. is home to one of the world’s largest Tongan diaspora populations, with many families directly affected by immigration policies and residency pathways. Changes to U.S. immigration procedures can also have wider consequences for families in Tonga through remittances, sponsorship arrangements, and long-term reunification plans.

As investigations into the White House shooting continue, uncertainty surrounding the new immigration policy remains a major concern for many Tongan families closely watching developments in the United States.

Tongan girl becomes first Pacific Islander crowned Mini Miss Aotearoa New Zealand 2026

By
Kaniva Staff
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A six-year-old girl of Tongan and Cook Islands heritage has made history after being crowned Mini Miss Aotearoa New Zealand 2026 in Auckland, becoming the first Pacific Islander to win the prestigious title.

Mini Miss Aotearoa New Zealand 2026, Cook Islander Maliana Roi receiving her award for best talent. SUPPLIED/26051006

Maliana Tupou Here Roi impressed judges and audiences alike earlier this month at the national pageant for girls aged 5 to 14, where she also won the Top Talent award for her standout cultural performance.

Her winning act—a Cook Islands solo dance blending both slow and fast rhythmic beats—drew a standing ovation from judges and captivated the audience.

The performance showcased her confidence, cultural pride, and stage presence well beyond her years.

Maliana was all smiles as she received her crown, marking a milestone achievement not only for herself but also for Pacific representation in national pageantry.

Early talent and rising star

Maliana’s journey began at just five years old when she started modelling in a Cook Islands fashion show run by Paul Hagai.

Although she was later scouted for professional modelling opportunities, her family chose to give her time to grow and enjoy her childhood.

Her unique look and striking presence were noted as key factors in her success, with judges reportedly impressed by her natural beauty and confident presentation.

Despite the magnitude of her win, those close to Maliana say she remains grounded. When asked how she felt about her victory, her response reflected her humble nature—she continues to be “just herself.”

Challenges and resilience

Behind the scenes, Maliana’s journey was not without challenges. During rehearsals, tensions reportedly emerged, with some contestants attempting to unsettle her. However, her resilience and determination stood out, a member of her family said.

Her uncle and chaperone, Kayne Strickland, who also served as her campaign manager, praised her composure and strength.

“She did a fantastic job—not only on the night but throughout all the community events,” he said.

Strong community and family support

Her family expressed immense pride in her achievement. Her grandparents, in particular, were overwhelmed with emotion, moved to tears as they watched her crowned on stage.

Maliana also demonstrated a strong sense of compassion, participating in charity fundraising efforts as part of the pageant programme.

Proud of her rich Pacific heritage, Maliana represents both sides of her family. Her mother, Anaseini Solo, is from Haʻapai, Tonga, while her father, Caleb Roi, has roots in Manihiki, Rakahanga, and Aitutaki in the Cook Islands.

Her success has already opened doors to international opportunities, with the national director encouraging her to consider competing in Little Miss Universe. However, her family has yet to decide whether she will take part in the 2027 event.

For now, Maliana remains open to appearances and engagements within the Tongan and wider Pacific communities, proudly embracing her identity.

Her crowning moment—met with loud applause and admiration—signals not only personal success but also a growing recognition of Pacific talent on the national stage.

Australian police on high alert after Vietnam killing of cartel leader and Sydney death of Alai Ahio

By
Kalino Latu
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The fatal shooting of an Australian gang leader in Vietnam and the earlier, separate gang-related killing of a Tongan-Australian man in Sydney have prompted police to investigate whether the two incidents are connected.

Alai ‘Ahio (L) and Lorenzo Lemalu

The 24-year-old Coconut Cartel gang leader, Lorenzo Lemalu, was shot dead outside a restaurant in Vietnam, just two days after 28-year-old Alai ‘Ahio—a former associate of the controversial rap group OneFour—was gunned down at a residence in Sydney’s Canley Heights on Tuesday night, May 19.

Australian authorities are on high alert over fears of retaliation following Lemalu’s death, while also investigating whether the earlier shooting of Ahio was linked to the Coconut Cartel, according to reports by news.com.au and 9News.

Relatives and those closely connected to Ahio’s family have confirmed to Kaniva News that he was of Tongan descent.

According to reports, the assailants were carrying firearms and knives, ambushing Ahio and four others in a coordinated assault before fleeing the scene. Ahio was killed in the attack, which left four others seriously injured.

Police have launched a major investigation, treating the killing as a premeditated act linked to ongoing gang tensions in Sydney’s south-west corridor—an area that has experienced periodic flare-ups of violence tied to organised crime networks.

Detectives are examining Ahio’s known associations and past activities to determine the motive behind the attack.

Cross-Border Violence Intensifies

Just days later, Lemalu was shot dead in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Lemalu, who reportedly had historical ties to the Alameddine crime family in Australia, was ambushed outside a restaurant on Thursday night. Witness accounts suggest he was targeted in a hail of gunfire at close range.

Disturbing footage of the incident, which has circulated widely online, captures the moments leading up to the fatal shooting, underscoring the brazen nature of the attack.

Another individual believed to be associated with the Coconut Cartel was also wounded during the incident, though their current condition has not been publicly confirmed.

Vietnamese authorities are working alongside international law enforcement agencies to piece together the circumstances surrounding Lemalu’s death, including any possible links to recent events in Australia.

The Coconut Cartel, in particular, has been associated with a range of criminal activities and has drawn attention from authorities due to its perceived links to other established syndicates. Similarly, the Alameddine network has long been a focus of Australian law enforcement, with members reportedly involved in high-profile criminal cases.

Tonga faces double immigration setback as U.S. requires green card applicants to return home

By
Kalino Latu
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The Trump administration’s new requirement for non-immigrant visa holders seeking permanent residency or green cards to return home to apply is expected to deepen the difficulties already confronting many Tongans under existing U.S. visa restrictions.

It comes after Tonga was placed on a United States list subject to partial visa suspensions, halting the processing of visitor, business, student, and exchange visas and restricting some immigrant visa pathways, with limited exceptions. These measures, introduced in January 2026, were linked to national security concerns, including relatively high visa overstay rates among Tongan nationals, significantly affecting opportunities for travel, study, and migration.

Under the new rule, individuals in the United States on temporary visas—such as students, seasonal workers, or tourists—will no longer be permitted to apply for a green card from within the country.

Instead, they will be required to leave the U.S. and complete their applications through consular processing in their home countries.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) spokesperson Zach Kahler said the move reinforces the original intention of temporary visas.

“From now on, an alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply, except in extraordinary circumstances,” Kahler said.

He added that the change would make the system “fairer and more efficient,” ensuring temporary visas are not used as an indirect pathway to permanent residency.

The statement explained that individuals entering the United States on non-immigrant visas—such as students, temporary workers, and tourists—are intended to stay only for a limited period and for a clearly defined purpose.

Impact on Tongan Diaspora

According to the 2020 US Census, there are 78,871 people of Tongan descent living in the United States, including those of partial ancestry.

The Tongan community in the United States is one of the largest Pacific Island populations overseas, with strong ties to the LDS Church, the second-largest denomination in Tonga. Each year, hundreds of students—many from Church-run schools in Tonga—travel to study at Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYU).

Shortly after the January visa ban on Tonga, Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua revealed at a press conference that around 60 Tongan students due to begin studies at BYU had been unable to secure United States student visas.

He said the situation was a direct result of recent US restrictions affecting tourist and student visa categories.

Many Tongans enter the United States on student visas or temporary work schemes and later adjust their status through employment sponsorship or family-based petitions, eventually securing green cards and citizenship. However, that pathway is no longer available following the new directive announced this week.

Half-Million Domestic Filing Figure

Under previous rules, nearly half of green card applicants—around 500,000 people annually—were able to apply from within the United States, according to former USCIS official Doug Rand.

This pathway allowed individuals to maintain their livelihoods and family stability while their applications were processed.

However, the new requirement could disrupt this process.

The new directive means Tongans returning from the United States to lodge visa applications could face challenges similar to those reported by applicants who travelled to Fiji, where many encountered high costs and, in some cases, visa refusals.

Critics warn policy backfires

Former immigration officials have criticised the policy, saying it could effectively close off legal pathways rather than streamline them.

Doug Rand described the policy as restrictive, arguing that forcing people to leave the U.S. may act as a barrier rather than a solution.

“The purpose of this policy is exclusion,” Rand said. “Forcing them to go abroad for consular processing is no pathway at all.”

Critics also point out that consular processing systems abroad can be slow and unpredictable, often facing backlogs that may take months or even years to resolve.

The impact could extend beyond individuals to affect Tonga itself.

Former Police Minister to face court over alleged role in assisting Mormon leader’s departure from Tonga

By
Kalino Latu
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A former Minister of Police is expected to appear in court on Monday next week following an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) into allegations he intervened in a court matter that allowed a church leader to leave the country.

Piveni Piukala (R) along with Pita Foliaki Hopoate

Kaniva News understands that Piveni Piukala is expected to answer allegations that he assisted Pita Foliaki Hopoate to leave Tonga for the United States, despite a court-issued restraining order prohibiting his travel.

Details of the charges and specific court proceedings have not yet been publicly released.

In an earlier statement, authorities confirmed that Hopoate remains the subject of ongoing court proceedings, and that a formal order had been issued preventing him from leaving Tonga.

The restraining order followed legal action brought by ‘Epalahame Taukei’aho’, a member of their Mormon Church school alumni association.

It is understood that Hopoate is currently in the United States

The case has drawn significant public attention, raising concerns about the enforcement of court orders and the potential misuse of authority.

As Kaniva News reported previously, the case plunged the nation into intense public outrage, exposing deep divisions across Tonga’s political and social landscape.

When the incident first emerged last year, former Minister of Customs Māteni Tapueluelu publicly criticised Mr Piukala, raising concerns over what was seen as interference in matters under his ministry’s authority at the airport.

It follows criticism from Lord Vaea at the time, now the Speaker of Parliament, who faulted former Prime Minister Dr ‘Aisake Eke for not removing Mr Piukala from Cabinet earlier.

Dr Eke later announced that Mr Piukala had resigned in December, citing pressure from the Anti-Corruption Commission Commissioner to ensure the investigation could proceed independently.

As previously reported by Kaniva News, Mr Piukala did not deny assisting Mr Hopoate, publicly maintaining that it was his duty as a Member of Parliament to help members of the public when approached for assistance.

Tonga Electoral Commission appoints new Supervisor of Elections

By
Kaniva Staff
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The Tonga Electoral Commission has officially appointed Mr Samuiela Vao as the new Supervisor of Elections and Chief Executive Officer, marking a key leadership change in the administration of the country’s electoral system.

Mr Samuiela Vao

The appointment, which took effect on May 8, 2026, follows a formal selection process, the Commission said in a statement released on Friday.

Mr Vao, 37, is no stranger to the role, having previously served as the Acting Supervisor of Elections after the retirement of former Supervisor Mr. Pita Vuki. His confirmation to the position signals continuity within the Commission’s leadership.

In his new role, Mr Vao will be responsible for overseeing the Electoral Commission’s administration, carrying out statutory duties under the Tonga Electoral Act, and advising commissioners on electoral matters.

The Commission said it expects Mr Vao to deliver “trustworthy services” to the people of Tonga and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

The appointment comes as Tonga continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, with the Electoral Commission playing a central role in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections across the Kingdom.

The Board of Commissioners extended its best wishes to Mr Vao as he assumes his new position.

Two arrested in Mataika over alleged drug offending

By
Kaniva Staff
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Two individuals have been arrested following an alleged drug-related investigation, according to a media release issued by Tonga Police.

Police said a 40-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman, both from Mataika in Tongatapu, were taken into custody after information was received alleging they were selling illicit drugs within the community.

Both suspects have been charged with possession of drugs (methamphetamine) and possession of drug utensils.

During the operation, officers seized a quantity of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and more than 70 boxes of tablets.

Police also recovered cash in multiple currencies, including Tongan paʻanga, New Zealand dollars, Australian dollars, and United States dollars.

Additional items believed to be linked to the alleged offending were also confiscated.

Police confirmed that investigations into the matter are ongoing.

Authorities are continuing to urge members of the public to report suspicious activity, stressing that community cooperation plays a vital role in addressing crime.

“Every report matters,” the statement said, encouraging the public to work together with police to build a safer and stronger community.

Further details are expected to be released as inquiries progress.

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