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.
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.
Members of the Tongan community in Kerikeri gathered on a beach in the Bay of Islands in prayer and song as one of their own was feared missing at sea before later being found alive and safe.
Members of the Tongan community gather at the shoreline in the Bay of Islands, praying and singing hymns during a search for a missing man at sea.
Sources told Kaniva News that Aufuato Kaufisi was rescued and taken to hospital for a medical check-up before being released and returning home in good condition.
Videos shared with Kaniva News show a group of Tongans standing near the shoreline, singing hymns and praying together.
Some appeared visibly emotional during the vigil. Later social media posts referenced Kaufisi’s rescue, although no other individuals were mentioned as being with him during the ordeal.
Meanwhile, Police reported that on the same day, Friday May 1, three men had “narrowly escaped tragedy” after their boat capsized in rough conditions in the Bay of Islands earlier that morning.
Police said they received a report at 6.45am from a man who had swum ashore after the dinghy he was travelling in sank off Wairoa Bay, near Waitangi, at around 3am.
Detective Sergeant Paul Overton said the man’s two crewmates were initially unaccounted for and were “last seen clinging to a chilly bin in the water”.
“The males had been fishing at the time and were not wearing life jackets,” Overton said.
Coastguard responded swiftly, with five volunteers from Coastguard Bay of Islands launching rescue vessel Bay Rescue 2 to assist in the search, alongside a Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
“At around 8.30am, the second person was found safely washed ashore,” a Coastguard spokesperson said.
Less than an hour later, the third missing person was located on rocks near Bayleys Farm in a moderate condition.
“The person was flown to Waitangi Bike Park where they were transported to hospital by road ambulance,” an Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopters spokesperson said.
Overton said the incident was caused by a large 12-foot wave striking the vessel, causing it to “rapidly fill with water and sink”.
“I cannot stress just how incredibly lucky these three men are,” he said, describing the situation as a “terrifying ordeal.”
Kaniva News was unable to confirm whether Kaufisi’s rescue and the boating incident were linked.
The events have drawn attention to the dangers of changing sea conditions in the Bay of Islands and the importance of safety precautions, including the use of life jackets.
Tonga Police have arrested 22 people during a week-long Driving Under the Influence (DUI) operation aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm on the country’s roads.
The arrests were made as part of a nationwide enforcement effort targeting drivers under the influence of alcohol.
Police said the operation reflects an ongoing commitment to improving road safety and protecting all road users.
According to a media release issued on Monday, 14 of those arrested were males aged between 19 and 56, while eight were females aged between 22 and 44.
Tonga Police emphasised that driving under the influence is a criminal offence that poses serious risks not only to drivers but also to passengers, pedestrians, and the wider public.
“This action reflects Tonga Police’s commitment to promoting road safety and reducing the harmful impact of alcohol on the community,” the statement said.
Authorities have warned that enforcement operations will continue and urged the public to make responsible choices.
Police also reiterated a strong message to motorists: “Do not drink and drive.”
The campaign forms part of broader efforts to curb dangerous driving behaviour and ensure safer roads across the Kingdom.
Nuku’alofa – A journalist with Kele’a Publications in Tonga was allegedly threatened at gunpoint following the broadcast of a radio news report about a prominent individual with links to an outlaw motorcycle gang, according to an official media release issued by the company.
‘Eneasi Taumoefolau is serving a life sentence in Tonga for importing methamphetamine and has admitted attempting to establish a Comancheros chapter in the island nation.
The alleged gunman is reported to have targeted the journalist in anger over coverage linking a prominent individual to the Australian outlaw motorcycle gang, the Comancheros.
Kele’a management confirmed that the incident occurred on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the organisation’s office in Kolomotu’a, Tongatapu.
An unidentified individual reportedly entered the premises and confronted a staff member while armed with a handgun.
The suspect, described as wearing a black hooded cardigan, allegedly approached a journalist who was alone at the time and threatened the journalist with the firearm.
The individual is believed to have been angered by a radio news item aired earlier that morning concerning Mr Eneasi Taumoefolau, who is currently serving a life sentence at Hu’atolitoli Prison, and his reported affiliations with the Australian outlaw motorcycle gang, the Comancheros.
Taumoefolau, an Australian deportee and senior member of the Comancheros outlaw motorcycle gang, was sentenced to life imprisonment in Tonga in early 2026 for importing more than two kilograms of methamphetamine. He was also accused of attempting to establish a “Kingdom Chapter” of the gang in the kingdom.
No one was injured, and police are investigating the incident, according to Kele’a Media.
It is alleged that the suspect warned the journalist not to broadcast any further reports related to Taumoefolau or the gang before leaving the office. The individual then exited in a waiting vehicle.
The news item in question reportedly drew on information from an ABC Foreign Correspondent documentary released on April 22, 2026, via ABC Pacific’s social media platforms. The documentary examined drug trafficking routes from South America to Australia through the South Pacific and the impact of such operations on island nations, including Tonga.
The programme included an interview with Taumoefolau, during which he discussed his alleged connections to the Comancheros and a reported failed attempt to establish a local chapter in Tonga.
Kele’a confirmed that the incident was reported to Tonga Police on the morning of Friday, April 24, and that investigations are ongoing.
In its statement, the publication expressed serious concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists operating in Tonga, particularly when covering sensitive or controversial issues.
“This unfortunate incident highlights the risks our local journalists face in carrying out their duties,” the statement said.
Kele’a also acknowledged the support of Police Commissioner Geoff Turner and law enforcement officers for their response and ongoing investigation into the matter. The organisation has urged members of the public with any information about the incident to come forward and assist police inquiries.
Police have not yet commented.
The report comes after Tonga was ranked 51st by Reporters Without Borders, which noted that politicians are often a source of pressure on local news organisations.
The report on the rare appearance of a comet in New Zealand skies this coming week has prompted cultural reflection among Tongans, bringing renewed attention to the meaning of fetu‘u fuka—the Tongan term for comet—and its deeper significance in poetic expression, which many had not fully understood despite its long-standing use in song.
Queen Sālote Tupou III
Known scientifically as C/2025 R3 PanSTARRS, the comet will be visible for a limited time before disappearing for an estimated 170,000 years—a rarity that helps explain why a song, Fonua Mana, celebrating the singular greatness of Queen Sālote Tupou III, the beloved Queen of Tonga, was so highly regarded for its use of fetu‘u fuka.
As one of the earlier compositions shaped by the figurative conventions of the traditional popular song genre known as hiva kakala, it has retained its popularity to the present day.
This genre is distinctive for its deliberate reflection of Tonga’s hierarchical social structure, using figurative language or heliaki to both enhance the honour of those of higher status and to subtly convey meaning in accordance with cultural taboos.
The comet’s rare and unpredictable appearance conveys a sense of uniqueness, suggesting a figure who is unparalleled and unlikely to be seen again in the same way. At the same time, the comet’s striking brightness as it crosses the sky signifies radiance and distinction.
As a poetic device, it reflects the Queen’s commanding presence, dignity, and exceptional stature, portraying a leading figure in Tongan literature whose excellence stands out vividly and endures in memory.
Grace That Outlived Time
Queen Sālote ascended to the throne in 1918 at just 18 years of age and reigned for nearly 48 years until her death in 1965, leaving a profound imprint on Tonga’s cultural and national identity.
Regarded as the greatest punake Tonga has ever produced, she composed more than 100 works, including lullabies, laments, hiva kakala, and dances.
In recognition of her enduring contribution to Pacific music and culture, she was posthumously honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2019 Pacific Music Awards in Auckland, presented during the ceremony’s 15th anniversary.
Professor Futa Helu, a distinguished authority on Tongan literature and song, has argued that the use of fetuʻu fuka in Fonua Mana constitutes the highest expression of heliaki within a hiva kakala, signifying the Queen’s unmatched greatness.
The song Fonua Mana, composed by Sēmisi ‘Iongi—often regarded as the “Shakespeare of Tonga,” in reference to William Shakespeare (1564–1616), the renowned English playwright, poet, and actor widely considered the greatest writer in the English language—features fetuʻu fuka as a powerful lyrical hook in its opening line.
Fonua Mana
[V1]Lupe fano ‘i he fetu’u fuka Takafia e la’ā mo e ‘otu nēpula Kaveinga ko si’ene mafua Ko e ola ‘o e tavatava ‘i Manuka
The first verse figuratively portrays Queen Sālote as a dove (lupe) soaring endlessly (fano) upon a comet (fetu‘u fuka), journeying beyond the sun and nebulae toward the stars (kaveinga). These layered expressions elevate her as a figure of rare distinction, moving beyond earthly boundaries and embodying a presence both far-reaching and exceptional.
The placement of fetu‘u fuka as the lyrical hook in the opening line is significant, immediately establishing the song’s central image and giving its message clarity, power, and lasting impact.
The reference to tavatava ‘i Manuka introduces a nuanced proverb, often associated with the act of revealing what is usually kept guarded; in this poetic context, it suggests the sharing or outpouring of her inner gifts—particularly her poetic brilliance—offered openly and generously beyond expected bounds.
[V2] Maui fusifonua pea tauala ‘O ne tuku ‘a Tonga ki he ‘olovaha ‘Eva laukau ‘i he fonua mana Nofo he nonga kae toe holi vaka
In the second verse, the punake elevates Queen Sālote’s legacy by likening it to the demigod Māui Fusifonua—the land-puller—celebrated in Tongan tradition for securing and shaping the land for his people. Through this imagery, the Queen is portrayed as a guiding force who set Tonga on a firm and purposeful path, enabling her people to dwell in a flourishing and blessed land.
The phrase Fonua Mana, from which the song takes its title, suggests that the composer is invoking the idea of a “magical world”—commonly defined in English as one shaped through imaginative expression in literature and artistic creativity, and imbued with elements of fantasy. Within this framework, the punake appears to highlight the Queen’s exceptional creative vision, portraying her artistic works as a powerful force that enriches and elevates Tonga.
The closing line introduces the proverb nofo he nonga kae toe holi vaka, a caution against risking stability by venturing into uncertainty. In this context, it underscores the value of the peace and order established under her leadership, reminding her people to safeguard what has been secured rather than endanger it.
[Chorus]
Fangumahua mei Falelahi Fakafunga ‘a e laumanu ekiaki Moto e heilala ve’eve’e ‘o e Paki ‘Elito e lolo ‘alaha kei tangitangi
In the chorus, the punake distils the essence of the Queen’s legacy as an overflowing fangu (calabash) of fragrant oil poured out from Falelahi, symbolising the royal source of blessing and abundance. The imagery suggests a richness that spreads beyond its origin, drawing attention and admiration, as reflected in the reference to the young white tropical birds (laumanu ekiaki) that imaginarily encircle and honour it.
The final lines employ metonymy, linking the Queen to treasured indigenous fragrant flowers and oils—symbols of refinement, beauty, and enduring value—evoking a legacy that continues to diffuse its fragrance and presence long after its source is unseen.
[V3]He ‘oku tatau ‘a e tua moe palai Kae tuku ‘a ‘eta matalafo laukai Ko e mui vaka ‘a e folau tongiaki Na’e fēfē ho’o kau ‘i he’emau telekaki
In the final verse, the punake delivers a reflective and cautionary message, addressing those who may question or lose faith in the Queen’s leadership. Through a series of proverbs and idiomatic expressions, the verse draws on contrasts—such as sameness versus discernment—to challenge superficial judgment. Together, these expressions create an antithesis that ultimately highlights the Queen’s distinctiveness, urging recognition of her wisdom, leadership, and enduring legacy.
Editor’s Note: The authorship of this song has been variously attributed to Penisimani Lātū Langi, while others maintain it was composed by Sēmisi ‘Iongi. Both punake were close associates of Queen Sālote, and some of their works were performed by the Queen’s acoustic ensemble, Fuiva ‘o Fangatapu. For this article, ‘Iongi is identified as the composer, based on Professor Futa Helu’s account.
Nuku’aofa, Tonga – Communities in villages across Tonga have voiced frustration after an unexpected power outage disrupted Fakamē Day celebrations on Sunday, May 3.
Children dressed in traditional white attire and woven mats gather inside a church during Fakamē Day, preparing for their religious performances as part of Tonga’s annual Children’s Sunday celebrations.
Fakamē Day, also known as Children’s Sunday, is a significant annual event for Protestant churches in Tonga, observed on the first Sunday of May.
The day is dedicated to children’s religious performances, where they recite Bible verses, deliver speeches, and participate in choir singing—often before proud families and church congregations.
However, this year’s celebrations were overshadowed by a sudden blackout that left many children struggling to be heard during their performances.
Sources told Kaniva News that the outage occurred without warning, cutting electricity mid-programme and plunging churches into silence as sound systems went dead.
“We were very disappointed,” one churchgoer said.
“The children had practised for weeks. Then suddenly, there was no power, no microphones, and many of them could barely be heard.”
Parents and organisers described scenes in which children were forced to continue their recitations and speeches without amplification, with some visibly unsettled by the unexpected disruption.
“It was heartbreaking to watch,” another source said.
“The younger ones especially rely on microphones. Without them, they became shy and struggled to project their voices.”
Lack of Notice Criticised
The outage has sparked wider concern among communities already frustrated by what they say are ongoing electricity reliability issues.
A search by Kaniva News of Tonga Power Limited’s official Facebook page found no public notice of a scheduled power shutdown for Sunday, May 3, raising questions about the cause of the disruption. The most recent planned outage notice posted on the page was dated May 1.
However, TPL later issued an apology in the afternoon—after many churches had already concluded their Fakamē programmes earlier in the day, stating:
“Tonga Power Limited (TPL) understands the inconvenience caused by the current power outage affecting all areas of Tongatapu. The outage is due to damaged power lines, and our teams are on-site working urgently to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. We sincerely thank you for your patience and understanding as we work together to resolve these issues.”
The lack of prior warning has been a major point of criticism, with residents arguing that advance notice could have allowed churches to make alternative arrangements, such as securing generators.
This latest incident comes amid growing dissatisfaction with TPL, which has faced strong criticism over repeated outages spanning more than a decade. Many residents have previously complained about inconsistent supply and the impact it has on daily life, businesses, and important community events.
Fakamē, a term derived from the month of May and referring to the performances held during that time, represents a moment when families and churches come together to celebrate the spiritual growth and importance of children. It is widely regarded as a joyful and sacred occasion, where young people take centre stage in worship.
Despite the setback, many children continued their performances bravely, with congregations offering encouragement as they adapted to the situation.
“They did their best,” one parent said. “Even without power, they kept going. We are proud of them—but this should not have happened on such an important day.”
St John responded with two ambulances, one rapid response unit and one manager.
One person in a serious condition was transported to Auckland City Hospital.
Three others were treated at the scene – two in a moderate condition and one in a minor condition.
Emergency services were called to the address on Picton St, Freemans Bay at around 8pm Saturday (Source: 1News)
Fire and Emergency NZ said a fire truck, heavy rescue tender and specialist rescue crew attended the scene.
“All persons were accounted for inside the house,” a spokesperson said.
A witness at the scene told 1News a 21st birthday party was taking place at the house when the crash occurred. She described feeling a “big boom” during the impact.
“It was literally a parked car, and then out of nowhere it just sped and hit a house full of people.”
Another witness described the incident as “quite traumatic”.
‘A big fright’: Witness describes moment car crashed into Auckland house during party
Tenant Daniel Grundy said he was inside his bedroom when he heard a loud “ruckus” from outside his window.
‘A big fright’: Witness describes moment car crashed into Auckland house during party0:32
Tenant Daniel Grundy said he was inside his bedroom when he heard a loud “ruckus” from outside his window. (Source: 1News)
Tenant Daniel Grundy said he was inside his bedroom when he heard a “ruckus” from outside his window.
“Before I knew it someone was parked in my window. It was so quick,” he said.
Grundy said those nearby who heard the crash quickly went to help those inside the vehicle exit safely.
The vehicle was removed from the scene this morning (Source: 1News)
“It could’ve been a lot worse. It only landed on my foot,” he said.
“I’ve had many people today tell me to buy a Lotto ticket.”
An inspection of the building would take place today to assess the damage and check the structural integrity of the building, police said.
By Susan Botting, Local Democracy Reporter of RNZ and is republished with permission
Whangārei’s $32m Te Matau a Pohe bascule bridge is to be closed for repairs after the discovery of cracks inside its distinctive fishhook shaped structures.
Waka hourua travel under Te Matau a Pohe in 2019 during a pōwhiri as part of the national Tuia Encounters 250 celebrations marking 250 years since the first onshore encounters between Māori and Europeans in New Zealand. Photo: NZME
The cracks need urgent repairs to prevent damage to the structure.
Te Matau a Pohe, which is New Zealand’s only rolling bascule bridge and one of fewer than a dozen of its type in the world, opened in July 2013.
Since then it has lifted more than 25,000 times for boats making their way along the lower Hātea River, just upstream from where it meets Whangārei Harbour. About 50,000 boats have crossed underneath heading between the Whangārei Town Basin and the harbour.
The cracks have been found in welding inside the steel hook beams.
Whangārei ratepayers paid about $17 million towards the bridge’s construction, in conjunction with NZTA Waka Kotahi.
The bridge’s two distinctive giant white curved shapes are almost 20m tall and represent Māori fishhooks, reflecting local traditions of fishing, navigation, and the cultural relationship with Whangārei Harbour.
Te Matau a Pohe is one of Whangārei’s most visible landmarks.
There are around 4 million vehicle movements over it each year. That’s about 11,000 daily, around 40 percent more than the 8000 it was originally designed for.
Te Matau a Pohe will be closed for 24 hours to do repairs, from 6am Sunday 10 May at to Monday 11 May.
Its fishooks are the main structural arms of the bridge’s rolling bascule (lifting) mechanism. They allow the bridge deck to roll back and lift for boats.
They which each weigh 360 tonnes, their moving arms making the rolling motion possible and stable.
A 25 metre section of the bridge opens to let boats through. The opening road section rolls backward and upward along a curved track whilst the fishhook‑shaped beams roll with it, their 67‑tonne counterweights moving in the opposite direction to keep the system balanced.
The giant fishooks of Te Matau a Pohe stretch towards the sky as a vessel makes its way under the Whangārei bridge. Photo: NZME
Te Matau a Pohe and Dave Culham Drive will be closed to vehicles and boats – but pedestrians will be able to walk the bridge’s footpaths unless there is an emergency.
Repair backup dates have been scheduled for 17 May and 24 May.
Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper said the cracks had developed in internal welds over time.
“The need for these repairs was identified during a routine structural inspection and the recommendation was to carry them out promptly to avoid any future damage or disruption,” Couper said.
Repairs to the welds were being done to ensure the structure’s long-term durability.
He said the welds had not failed or come apart.
In a council communication forwarded to boaties, the need for the weld repairs was described as urgent.
Whangarei Marina has advised boaties who might want to cross under the bridge during its closure to make alternative arrangements.
Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper. Photo: NZME
Those who needed access under the bridge during that time could possibly be accommodated at the new Okara Marina, downstream of Te Matau a Pohe.
Dave Culham Drive will be closed from Port Road to Riverside Drive – with detours via Riverside Drive and Dent Street.
Te Matau ā Pohe was designed by UK bridge specialists Knight Architects, in collaboration with New Zealand engineers Peters & Cheung (now Novare Design) and others, for Whangārei District Council.
The bridge has won more than a dozen national and international awards including the transport infrastructure award and then supreme engineering excellence award at the 2014 New Zealand Engineering Excellence Awards.
Te Matau ā Pohe means “the fishhook of Pohe”, referring to Pohe, the rangatira who welcomed early European settlers to the Whangārei area.
Cracks in internal welds are taken seriously because they occur in high‑stress areas, a known fatigue issue in large steel bridges and can usually be monitored and repaired long before safety is compromised.
The way cracks in bridge steel are dealt with depends on crack size and length, whether they are growing and whether they affect primary load-carrying parts of the bridge such as its main beams, supports, and connecting pieces.
In large steel bridges, weld cracks are typically repaired once they reach a few centimetres in length, show signs of growth, or occur in critical load‑bearing locations.
Repairs are usually triggered by crack growth or location, rather than waiting for large visible damage.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
By Lillian Hanly of RNZ, and is republished with permission
ACT is proposing a shakeup of immigration policy, with a six-point plan including deporting serious offenders no matter how long they have been in the country.
ACT leader and Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour (Source: 1News
It would also include a $6 per day infrastructure surcharge on temporary work visas and a five-year welfare stand-down for all residence class visa holders.
ACT leader David Seymour says it will make the system work better for New Zealand, and rebuild confidence in immigration by restoring fairness and accountability.
He says the country needs new migrants to grow and develop, but his proposed system would only welcome people if they share values of tolerance, freedom and democracy, and help build infrastructure and play by the rules.
“Success requires a common set of expectations; respect our freedoms, uphold our democratic values, contribute to infrastructure, speak English, obey the law, and fill genuine gaps in the economy,” he said.
Seymour said immigration had enriched New Zealand, and in less than 200 years the country had gone from a “series of isolated villages” to a network of modern cities.
“From those who arrived in open boats 700 years ago, to those who arrived at Auckland Airport this morning, our country has been built by people willing to make a journey to try and build something better,” said Seymour.
He said people were asking why something “doesn’t quite feel right with immigration”, and ACT believed their suspicions were correct.
Seymour blamed successive governments for letting a skilled-migration system become a “general-purpose labour tap”.
“They have failed to enforce the rules they set.
“They have allowed infrastructure to fall further behind. And they have asked too little of people who want to benefit from the Kiwi character without supporting it.
“The rate of settlement has overwhelmed the ability to provide infrastructure.”
Seymour said his party’s policy would restore the “basic bargain” that New Zealand was built on.
The six-point plan includes;
Deporting serious offenders, “no matter how long they’ve been here”
Expire categories under Accredited Employer Work visas every year
Introduce a five-year welfare stand-down for all residence class visa holders
Introduce a $6 per day infrastructure surcharge on temporary work visas, on top of existing charges
Extend basic English language requirements to all work visa types
Establish a dedicated overstayer enforcement unit within Immigration New Zealand.
Nuku’alofa — Early signs of progress are emerging at the Ministry of Lands, with its newly launched call centre already delivering faster responses and improved public service.
Call centre operators handle public inquiries on the day the Lands Ministry’s new call centre was launched, part of ongoing reforms to improve service delivery.
Lands Minister Taniela Fusimālohi says the system is working well, with early results emerging just two weeks after its launch, marking a positive step as the Ministry seeks to rebuild public trust following years of criticism and a backlog estimated at around 7,000 cases.
In the first eight working days alone, the call centre received more than 200 inquiries from the public via phone and email, the Minister said, with over 80 already processed — an early indication that the new approach is beginning to ease pressure on the system.
He said that with the centre now in operation, members of the public are no longer required to visit the Ministry’s counter for routine inquiries, with all requests now channelled through the call centre to allow staff more time to access records and provide accurate, consistent responses.
Fusimālohi said the shift is improving efficiency while reducing the risk of favouritism, and lowering “the likelihood of any exchange of money or gifts” linked to public dealings with the Ministry.
The introduction of technology-driven systems is seen as key to clearing the backlog and restoring confidence in its services, he said.
Face-to-face meetings will still be arranged when necessary, with appointments made for clients to meet relevant divisions, the Chief Executive Officer, or the Minister.
However, the Ministry is urging the public to avoid visiting the office simply to check the status of applications, advising instead that the call centre provides a quicker and more cost-effective option.
Callers are encouraged to have their phone number and email details ready to help staff respond promptly.
Nuku’alofa — Tonga’s media is under growing strain, with the country slipping further down global press freedom rankings as political pressure, restrictive laws and economic hardship tighten around journalists.
The latest 2026 Reporters Without Borders (RSF) World Press Freedom Index places Tonga at 51st in the world, down five places from 46th last year — a decline that reflects deep‑seated weaknesses in the country’s media environment.
The ranking places the Kingdom mid-tier in the Pacific — falling well behind Fiji at 24th, while only narrowly staying ahead of Samoa at 59th.
The comparison shows a widening gap, with Fiji strengthening its media environment and Tonga losing ground, while Samoa remains close enough to challenge Tonga’s position, highlighting growing pressure on the Kingdom to address the political, legal and economic constraints affecting its media freedom.
Watchdog Role Under Pressure
Since the democratic reforms of 2010, Tonga’s independent media have steadily taken on a watchdog role. But that role is increasingly being tested.
RSF says some politicians target journalists who scrutinise them, while growing royal influence and recent political instability have heightened pressure on press freedom.
At the same time, legal protections remain fragile. Although the constitution guarantees media freedom, enforcement is inconsistent, and recent laws governing online communication and “sensitive information” have created uncertainty. Journalists can face unclear legal risks, encouraging many to avoid controversial reporting altogether.
This has contributed to a culture of self-censorship. In Tonga’s small and closely connected society, reporters are rarely threatened physically, but often hold back on sensitive topics to avoid political backlash or legal trouble.
Economic pressure is another major factor behind the country’s decline. Many media outlets operate in a fragile market and depend heavily on advertising — including government funding — which can influence editorial decisions. The situation worsened after the COVID‑19 downturn and the 2022 volcanic eruption, leaving the industry financially vulnerable and journalists focused on survival.
Limited space, rising pressure
The media landscape itself is limited. With print media virtually non‑existent across Tonga’s scattered islands, the space is dominated by state broadcasting and a small number of online outlets. This narrow environment reduces diversity of voices and makes the sector more sensitive to pressure.
Some issues also remain largely off‑limits. Topics such as police conduct, the death penalty and child marriage are rarely reported, reflecting both legal uncertainty and deep-rooted social pressures that continue to shape what can be safely published.
Regionally, Tonga now trails behind Fiji, which has climbed sharply in the rankings, while Samoa sits just below — signalling a tightening contest among Pacific nations over media freedom standards.
Globally, the picture is even more troubling. RSF says press freedom has dropped to its lowest level in 25 years, with more than half of countries classed as problematic or worse.
For Tonga, the message behind the latest ranking is clear: journalists are still working, but not fully free. Political pressure, restrictive laws, financial survival and self-censorship are combining to quietly erode the independence that democracy once promised.
