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Tonga ex-PM’s ‘No missing money’ defense collides with $60M receipt scandal

By
Kalino Latu
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Commentary – The former Prime Minister’s insistence that no COVID-19 funds are missing, despite the Auditor-General’s finding of no receipts or records for $60 million in expenditures, is a deeply flawed argument that raises serious concerns about transparency and accountability in governance.

At its core, this claim appears to be an attempt to deflect responsibility rather than address the glaring failure to document how taxpayer money was spent during a national crisis.   

The fundamental flaw in the former PM’s argument is the logical inconsistency in asserting that no funds are missing while simultaneously failing to provide any proof of how they were used.

Without receipts, expenditure reports, or proper documentation, there is no verifiable way to confirm whether the funds were used appropriately, misallocated, or even misused.

In any accountable government, records are not optional—they are a basic requirement to ensure public funds are managed responsibly. The absence of such documentation is, in itself, a breach of public trust.  

The admission by both the Speaker and the current Prime Minister that no rules required receipts or record-keeping for COVID-19 expenditures is an alarming revelation.

While they argue that the pandemic was unforeseen, this does not excuse the lack of basic financial safeguards. Emergency spending does not mean abandoning accountability—governments worldwide managed to implement COVID-19 relief while maintaining records.

The fact that Tonga’s leadership only now recognises the need for better systems, after $60 million remains unaccounted for, suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to governance.  

Deputy Prime Minister Fusimālohi’s criticism of the former government’s carelessness highlights the political tensions surrounding this issue, but it also underscores a broader systemic failure.

While blaming the previous administration may serve short-term political purposes, the real problem is the absence of enforceable financial controls that should have existed regardless of which party was in power. The heated exchanges in Parliament between former and current officials only distract from the urgent need for institutional reforms.  

The Speaker’s call for new rules to prevent future lapses is a step in the right direction, but it must be followed by concrete action. The Auditor-General’s findings should prompt not just policy changes but also a thorough investigation into how such a significant sum could vanish without a trace.

The public deserves more than just promises—they deserve answers, accountability, and guarantees that this will not happen again.  

Police uncover $30 million cocaine stash in Auckland business

By
Kaniva Staff
-

A massive cocaine haul worth nearly $30 million has been discovered hidden inside a shipment of building materials at a Mount Wellington business. The seizure is one of the largest in Auckland in recent years.


Yesterday afternoon, Police were called to the Carbine Road premises after a worker unloading a shipping container of building materials located the bags.


Detective Senior Sergeant Anthony Darvill, of Auckland City CIB, says more than 75 packages of cocaine wrapped in cellophane were located in the duffle bags.


“An investigation between Police and Customs is now under way following yesterday’s seizure.


“The joint investigation will focus on the movements of the container and its eventual destination,” he says.


“What we do know is that the container transited through Central America in late March 2025 on its way to New Zealand.


“Cocaine is a highly addictive drug and causes a concerning level of harm in our communities.


“This is a significant find and will put a noticeable dent in the availability of this illegal drug in the district and the harm caused by it.”


Customs’ Acting Investigations Manager, Rachael Manning says: “Customs is committed to working in collaboration with Police to play our part in preventing drugs from reaching our communities, where they cause significant social harm.


“We will continue to provide intelligence and investigative support to our Police partners to identify and hold those responsible to account.”


No arrests have been made and at this stage Police are not releasing any further details as investigations remain ongoing.


If you have any information that may assist Police in identifying and locating those involved in the supply of drugs or organised criminal groups you can report information to the Police via 105 if it’s after the fact or 111 if it is happening now.


Alternatively, you can report information anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Pope’s Legacy of Diversity: Tongan scholar reflects on historic non-European cardinals

By
Kalino Latu
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The late Pope is being remembered for his groundbreaking efforts to promote cultural diversity within the Catholic Church, including the historic appointment of the first Cardinal from Tonga in the Pacific.  

Cardinal Soane Patita Paini Mafi of Tonga received the red three-cornered biretta hat from Pope Francis

For centuries, the highest positions in the Church, including the College of Cardinals, were dominated by European clergy—a tradition that began to shift under his leadership.  

Dr Felise Tāvō, a Tongan scholar and former priest, reflected on the significance of the late Pontiff’s legacy. “It was remarkable to witness a Pope who was not only the first non-European in modern times but also the first from the Americas to diversify the Church’s leadership actively,” Dr Tāvō said.  

“His appointments, including the first Tongan Cardinal, signalled a bold step toward inclusivity.”  

The late Pope’s decision to elevate clergy from underrepresented regions was seen as a move to better reflect the global nature of Catholicism.  

The appointment of Cardinal Soane Patita Paini Mafi of Tonga in 2015 was a historic milestone, marking a new era for Pacific representation in the Vatican.  

“I was moved by the Pope’s way of trying to balance out the church,” Dr. Tavo added. “For many centuries, the top positions in the church were dominated by the Europeans.”

As the Catholic Church mourns his passing, many are honouring his legacy of broadening the Church’s cultural horizons—a shift that continues to inspire faithful around the world. 

In 2021, Vatican News reported that the Pope underlined that “the presence of Faith and Light was and is a prophecy,” because often the most fragile people are discarded and considered useless. 

He added that this prophecy is “even more important today, to combat the culture of discarding and to remind everyone that diversity is a richness and must never become a reason for exclusion and discrimination.” 

One of Pope Francis’ milestones in the Church was his appointment of Sr. Simona Brambilla, an Italian-born religious sister from the Consolata Missionaries, as Prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, with Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime serving as Pro-Prefect. 

In Tonga, Cardinal Mafi was en route to Rome to attend Pope Francis’ funeral when he gave an interview to Taumu’a Lelei, the Catholic newspaper.  

He was asked to comment on the fact that despite all the good work of the Holy Father, he faced opposition from some Cardinals and conservatives who vigorously defend Church doctrines, particularly regarding groups like homosexuals. 

The Cardinal noted this tension was unsurprising: “There have always been two wings in the Church. One strives to keep the Church’s teachings and doctrines grounded, while the other represents the pastoral side that walks in alignment with the changing world and its waves. These two wings necessarily coexist”.  

‘Stop committing adultery with my wife’ –  Viral video captures brutal restaurant brawl spilling into streets

By
Kalino Latu
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A violent confrontation erupted in a local restaurant, apparently in Tonga, and spilled onto the streets after a furious man attacked another, accusing him of having an affair with his wife.

The videos have gone viral, with viewers divided—some condemning the public violence, while others express sympathy for the husband’s rage.

The chaotic scene was captured in two separate viral videos, sparking widespread discussion online.

The first clip shows a man suddenly punching another patron inside what appears to be a restaurant.

Restaurant staff can be seen rushing in to break up the attack while a woman can be seen desperately trying to intervene as the aggressor continues his assault

Amid the chaos, a voice is heard shouting in Tongan, “When are you going to stop committing adultery with my wife?“

A second video shows the altercation moving outside, where the enraged man follows his target onto the road.

The two engage in a physical fight, with onlookers attempting to separate them.

The attacked man eventually turns to defend himself, leading to a heated exchange of blows before bystanders pull them apart.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether any arrests were made or if formal complaints were filed. However, the videos have gone viral, with social media users debating the ethics of public confrontations over alleged infidelity.

Witnesses at the scene described the incident as “shocking” and “intense,” with some expressing concern over the escalation of domestic disputes into public violence.

Tonga among Pacific Islands targeted by global Asian cyber scam networks, UN warns

By
Kalino Latu
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Tonga has been identified as one of several Pacific island nations caught in the expanding web of Asian cyber scam networks, according to a warning issued by the United Nations (UN).

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) revealed that sophisticated crime syndicates, running multi-billion-dollar online scam operations, are rapidly spreading their reach into new regions, including South America, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Pacific.

In the Pacific, countries such as Fiji, Palau, Tonga, and Vanuatu have been flagged as emerging hubs for these illicit activities.

The networks have also gained a strong foothold in African nations, including Zambia, Angola, and Namibia.

The UNODC reported on Monday that Chinese and Southeast Asian criminal groups are generating tens of billions of dollars annually through fraudulent schemes, including fake investments, cryptocurrency scams, and romance frauds.

These operations often rely on trafficked workers, who are forced to live and work in dire conditions while carrying out scams on unsuspecting victims worldwide.

Historically, these cyber scam centres have been concentrated in Myanmar’s lawless border regions and questionable “special economic zones” in Cambodia and Laos.

However, as international crackdowns intensify, criminal networks are shifting operations to less-monitored territories, including small island nations like Tonga.

Authorities are urging Pacific governments to strengthen cybersecurity measures and cross-border cooperation to combat the growing threat. With cybercrime evolving rapidly, experts warn that without swift action, vulnerable nations could become key staging grounds for these transnational criminal enterprises.

A France24 report says that the cybercrime syndicates are expanding their money-laundering operations by partnering with global organised crime groups—including South American drug cartels, the Italian mafia, and Irish mob—according to a UN report.

Cryptocurrency mining, due to its anonymity, has become a key tool for hiding illicit profits.

A 2023 raid in Libya exposed a large crypto mining operation linked to Chinese nationals, highlighting the networks’ adaptability. While crackdowns in Southeast Asia, such as Myanmar’s recent operation freeing 7,000 trafficked workers, have disrupted some scam centres, the UN warns that these gangs quickly relocate.

“The problem spreads like cancer—shut down in one place, it resurfaces elsewhere,” said a UN official.

The syndicates operate vast online ecosystems with encrypted messaging, payment apps, and cryptocurrencies to evade law enforcement. With hundreds of thousands forced into scam labour, the UN urges stronger global action to dismantle these networks.

Tongans share emotional Vatican photos with Pope Francis in moving online tribute after his death

By
Kalino Latu
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Many Tongans took to Facebook this morning to honour Pope Francis, sharing personal photos with him from visits to the Vatican in a heartfelt display of grief and compassion.

Anna and Siaosi Lōpeti from Pea, Tongatapu, currently residing in Australia with the Pope. Photo/Supplied

Pope Francis died of a stroke and subsequent irreversible heart failure, the Vatican says in a statement.

The online tribute came as the Catholic Church in Tonga confirmed the Pope’s passing, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of the spiritual leader.

In an official post, the Catholic Church in Tonga stated:

“The sad news of the Holy Father, Pope Francis’ passing has been confirmed by Vatican News. He died at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta at 9:45 a.m. on Easter Monday, 21st April 2025, at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the Pope’s death.”

As condolences poured in from around the world, Tongan Catholics joined in mourning by posting cherished memories—smiling alongside the Pope during papal audiences or receiving blessings in St. Peter’s Square.

The images, accompanied by prayers and messages of gratitude, highlighted the deep connection between the Pacific nation and the global Catholic community.

Anna Lopeti shared a message saying she and her family hope that he may be freed from earthly struggles and granted a peaceful existence with God.

“Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis (Jorge Mario Bergogli) O Lord and may your perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in eternal peace”.

Others expressed their sorrow and reflected on his contributions to faith and unity, highlighting the impact he had on their lives and communities.

Various posts included personal stories, prayers, and messages of condolence, showcasing the deep respect and love the community held for him.

“As pope he had to host the rich, famous, and powerful as part of his job, but his greatest legacy (I think) was making ample time for the lowest of the low. And since “love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8), may these put him in good stead as he stands before the just Judge. RIP Pope Francis.”, a commenter posted.

“May he rest in peace”, another wrote.

King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u celebrate Tongan culture in NZ, honoring Polyfest’s 50th and church ties

By
Kaniva Staff
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Commentary – Their Majesties King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u of Tonga are currently in New Zealand, as confirmed by recent reports and social media posts. 

For many Tongans living in Auckland—home to one of the largest Tongan diasporas in the world—the presence of the King and Queen is more than just a visit. Photo/Cass Vaea / Facebook

A notable highlight of their visit was their attendance at the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga in Tuingapapai ‘O Uesilee’, Favona, Auckland, where they joined worshippers on yesterday’s Sunday service.

Photos shared on Facebook captured the royal couple engaging with the congregation, further endearing them to the Tongan community in New Zealand.

The timing of their visit carries added significance, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Polyfest, New Zealand’s largest Pacific cultural festival, where Tongan students proudly represented their heritage through traditional dance, music, and storytelling.

For decades, Polyfest has served as a cornerstone of cultural pride for New Zealand’s Pacific youth, and this milestone year underscored the dynamism of Tongan identity abroad.

The King and Queen’s presence in New Zealand shortly after these celebrations further amplifies the message of unity and continuity between Tonga and its diaspora.

Auckland’s Tongan community—the largest outside the homeland—views these royal visits as a reaffirmation of shared values and belonging.

The Free Wesleyan Church, a spiritual and social hub for Tongans in Aotearoa, provided a fitting backdrop for Their Majesties to connect with their people, blending faith, tradition, and kinship.

Despite the physical distance between Tonga and Aotearoa, the monarchy’s visits reinforce cultural and spiritual ties, offering a sense of familiarity and pride to Tongans abroad.

King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u’s public appearances during their travels are often met with warmth and reverence, as they represent not only the sovereignty of Tonga but also the enduring identity of Tongans worldwide.

This visit, like previous ones, highlights the monarchy’s role as a unifying force, bridging the gap between the homeland and the diaspora. For Tongans in Auckland, seeing their King and Queen worship alongside them is a reminder that, no matter where they reside, their heritage and monarchy remain a vital part of their lives.

Tonga moves closer to lifesaving dialysis centre with delivery of new machines

By
Kalino Latu
-

Tonga has taken a major step toward establishing its first free dialysis clinic with the arrival of 10 state-of-the-art dialysis machines, marking significant progress since the groundbreaking ceremony at Veitongo in 2023.

Minister of Health Hon. Dr Ana Akauola thanks Chairman of the Siaosi Brown Dialysis Board, Mr Rodnia Emam infront of one of the new dialysis machines. Image: Radio Nuku’alofa

The new machines, valued at over AU$2 million, were donated by the US-based Siaosi Brown Dialysis Board, the main provider and sponsor of the kingdom’s dialysis centre project. They were officially received last week by Tonga’s Minister of Health, Dr Ana Akau’ola.

Tonga currently lacks a dialysis service for its people. Each year, sixty individuals in the kingdom die from chronic kidney disease, according to a report by Stuff.

The new equipment is expected to revolutionise kidney care in the kingdom, where dialysis access has long been limited.

Dr Akauola reportedly said the life-changing impact the machines will have, particularly for patients who previously had to travel overseas for treatment.

She said this is a milestone for Tonga’s healthcare system.

She also said these machines will save lives and provide much-needed relief to families affected by kidney disease.

Of the 10 machines, two will be allocated to Vaiola Hospital for acute care, six will support chronic kidney patients, and the remaining two will be reserved for emergencies and future demand. Local medical staff are already undergoing training, with the clinic expected to open in July.

The dialysis centre itself is being designed and built in the United States in prefabricated sections before being shipped to Tonga for assembly, a reliable source told Kaniva News.

Once operational, the centre will offer free dialysis treatments, significantly alleviating the financial and logistical burdens faced by Tongan patients who previously had to travel abroad for their treatments.

The Siaosi Brown Dialysis website said: “There will be five dialysis machines ready for patients in 2025 at our location in Tongatapu near Vaiola Hospital. These free services are only the beginning. Once the project is fully completed, the Health Education Centre will bring hope to hundreds of Tongans suffering from chronic kidney disease, regardless of their ability to pay. This beautiful new facility will be constructed in Tongatapu, and will become a beacon of hope to the community.”

Pope Francis dies aged 88, Vatican says

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and a global advocate for peace, compassion, and social justice, has passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed.

The first pope from the Americas, his historic papacy was marked by humility, reform, and outreach to marginalized communities. His death marks the end of an era for the Church and prompts mourning worldwide.

Francis’s papacy heralded many firsts and while he never stopped introducing reforms to the Catholic Church, he remained popular among traditionalists.

Not since Syrian-born Gregory III died in 741 had there been a non-European Bishop of Rome.

He was also the first Jesuit to be elected to the throne of St Peter – Jesuits were historically looked on with suspicion by Rome.

Francis’s predecessor, Benedict XVI, was the first Pope to retire voluntarily in almost 600 years and for almost a decade the Vatican Gardens hosted two popes.

As Cardinal Bergoglio of Argentina, he was already in his seventies when he became Pope in 2013.

Vatican announces Pope Francis’ death

A short while ago, His Eminence, Cardinal Farrell, announced with sorrow the death of Pope Francis, with these words: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

Quote Message

At 7:35 this morning (local time), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”

“He taught us to live the values ​​of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.”

Farrell adds: “With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

Man dies following assault in Auckland’s St Johns

By
Kalino Latu
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By 1News Reporters

Officers were seen investigating a bus stop on St Johns Rd shortly after 10pm last night.
Officers were seen investigating a bus stop on St Johns Rd shortly after 10pm last night. (Source: 1News)

A homicide investigation has been launched after a man was fatally assaulted in the Auckland suburb of St Johns last night.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Greaves said emergency services were called to reports a person had been assaulted by more than one person on St Johns Rd about 10pm on Saturday.

The 33-year-old victim was transported to hospital in a critical condition, where he died from his injuries

Homicide investigation launched after assault in Auckland suburb

Emergency services were called to St Johns Rd about 10pm on Saturday.

https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.693.0_en.html#fid=goog_2067879344Play Video

Homicide investigation launched after assault in Auckland suburb0:36

Emergency services were called to St Johns Rd about 10pm on Saturday. (Source: 1News)

“The offenders are believed to have left the area in a vehicle, travelling towards Remuera Rd,” Greaves said.

St Johns Rd would remain closed between Blackett Crescent and Dorchester Street while a scene examination was carried out.

Officers were seen investigating a bus stop on St Johns Rd shortly after 10pm last night.
Officers were seen investigating a bus stop on St Johns Rd shortly after 10pm last night. (Source: 1News)

“We are making enquiries to locate the offenders and the vehicle they left in, and at this time are still working to determine why this tragic event occurred.

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