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70 corruption complaints filed ahead of Tonga’s election—Police called in to assist investigation

By
Kalino Latu
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Nuku’alofa — Tonga’s Minister of Police, Piveni Piukala, has confirmed that police detectives have been asked to assist the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in resolving 70 complaints lodged ahead of the country’s general election in November.

Piveni Piukala

“These cases were expected to be addressed before the election,” Piukala said during a press briefing yesterday, citing a meeting with the ACC Commissioner.

The announcement follows revelations made by Prime Minister Dr ‘Aisake Eke during an overseas meeting, where he confirmed that complaints against the former Hu’akavameiliku government had been formally submitted to the ACC.

The complaints reportedly include accusations of misappropriation of public funds and breaches of governance protocols.

Dr Eke, who was in Honiara attending the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting recently, has repeatedly claimed that Hu’akavameiliku’s government misappropriated public funds.

He told RNZ Pacific that the proof of corruption against his predecessor is with the ACC.

“We have some cases already submitted the to the anti-corruption office, and they are working on them right away. I think the proof is already with them, and they are now in the process of reviewing [it] for submission to the court,” he said.

The former Prime Minister, Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, has denied the allegations, citing audited government accounts for 2022/23 and 2023/24 that show no findings of fraud or misappropriation. He also questioned the timing of the accusations, suggesting they may be politically motivated given the upcoming election, according to RNZ.

Tonga’s general election is scheduled for November 20, and the handling of these complaints is expected to play a significant role in shaping public opinion and political accountability.

Australian tribunal’s ruling puts Tonga in deportation path for drug dealer, father of six

By
Kalino Latu
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A tribunal has ruled that a Tongan father must be deported from Australia—a decision that could potentially separate him from his family.

Tu’aefe Pālelei, who played 15 provincial games between 2007 and 2009, became involved in serious criminal activities after arriving in Perth from New Zealand in 2010, following the collapse of his contract with the Western Force Super Rugby side due to injury.

He is now facing deportation to New Zealand, where he was born.

According to the tribunal ruling, he would likely relocate to Tonga.

The ruling came despite heartfelt pleas from the man’s wife, who told the hearing the family would be “broken” if he were removed, revealing she had become self-sufficient during his imprisonment, according to a report by the New Zealand Herald.

They have six children; two are adults.

After arriving in Perth in 2010, Pālelei worked as a nightclub doorman and bouncer, a debt collector, and took jobs in construction and landscaping.

During this period, he began accumulating a criminal record, including driving offences in 2010, assault in 2011, possession of methamphetamine for supply in 2015, and possession of a large enough quantity in 2019 to be declared a drug trafficker.

He sold some of the drugs he supplied to undercover police officers.

In 2021, a vehicle parked at his home was found to have a sports bag containing A$264,000 ($299,000) cash, the Herald reported.

While on bail for other offending, Pālelei delivered a bag containing A$50,000 to an associate as a down payment on 10kg of meth.

In all, Pālelei has amassed 17 convictions in Australia for driving, assault, weapons and drugs offending.

He has been incarcerated twice and was most recently sentenced to five years’ imprisonment in December 2022.

He is currently in Casuarina Prison south of Perth, with an earliest release date of September 7, 2027.

Palelei’s visa to be in Australia was cancelled under Section 501 of the Australian Migration Act because he had been sentenced to a prison term of more than 12 months.

According to tribunal reports, the seriousness and extent of his offences leave little room for leniency from Australian authorities.

“The tribunal considers that the applicant [Palelei] presents a real, and not insignificant, risk of reoffending and, if he were to reoffend, further significant harm would be visited upon the Australian community,” the Herald reported Senior tribunal member Chelsea Lyford as saying.

“The tribunal considers that the risk to the Australian community should the applicant commit further offences or engage in further serious conduct, weighs heavily against revocation.”

Lyford affirmed the decision under review – the decision not to revoke Palelei’s visa cancellation.

Although born and educated in New Zealand, Palelei is originally from Tonga. He told the tribunal that if deported, he would most likely travel from New Zealand to live with his elderly mother in Tonga, where he spent part of his childhood.

Judge warns of rising gun misuse in Tonga as Lapaha man jailed for armed threat

By
Kalino Latu
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The rise in firearm-related incidents in Tonga was central to the sentencing of Lapaha community warden Vili Lausi‘i, who received a three-month jail term.

Presiding over the case, Chief Justice Lord Malcolm Bishop said the courts have a duty to deter such behaviour, noting the “increase in the negative use of arms in society” and expressing concern over the growing presence of firearms in the Kingdom.

The incident occurred on 19 December 2024, between 10 and 11pm when the complainant and her family were driving through Lapaha.

Lausi‘i, 46, allegedly stopped his vehicle abruptly at an intersection, pointed a gun at them, and followed them to their home, continuing to aim the weapon at their car.

The family remained inside, too afraid to exit.

The complainant’s mother called out, asking why he was doing this, but Lausi‘i remained silent and only left when the complainant’s father arrived.

Mr Bishop said: “What is particularly serious about your case is that this offending arose with no provocation and out of your own volition you chose to approach the Complainant and her family then proceeded to follow them home with your loaded rifle pointed at their direction.”

Mr Bishop noted that Lausi‘i may have been part of an additional patrol group assisting community policing, possibly concerned about thefts occurring at the church.

“I can only speculate that you thought the occupants of this vehicle were potential thieves, even if your suspicion was justified, it is no excuse for pointing a loaded firearm in their direction causing them to be fearful and I would imagine, terrified.”

Lausi‘i is a father of two and had no prior criminal record and he expressed remorse for his actions.

“You are identified as a good citizen for being a reliable and hardworking individual for the benefit of his family and communities”, Mr Bishop said.

He imposed a sentence of 12 months’ imprisonment, with the final nine months suspended for two years under specified conditions.

Church Minister sentenced in Tonga over sexual assault case

By
Kalino Latu
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“Those in positions of trust must be held to the highest moral standards,” said the presiding judge, Lord Chief Justice Malcolm Bishop, in a case involving a former probationary minister and tutor at a church-run boarding school who was found guilty of multiple offences against students under his care.

The judge emphasised that the offender had been entrusted by both the church and the parents of the pupils to ensure their safety and protection.

“What is particularly serious about your case,” the judge stated, “is that you were in a position of trust at the school… entrusted with the wellbeing of children.”

Despite being convicted on the evidence presented during trial, the offender continues to maintain his innocence and has shown no remorse, according to a report from the Probation Office.

The judge noted this lack of accountability as a significant concern in sentencing.

While the prosecution submitted comparable cases to guide the court, the judge stressed that “each case must be decided on its own particular facts,” particularly when the offences involve multiple complainants and persistent conduct over a span of time.

The offender’s previous good character and status as a first-time offender were acknowledged, supported by numerous reference letters from community members. These were the only mitigating factors considered by the court.

The judge also referenced the principles in Mo’unga when considering the possibility of sentence suspension, noting that although the offender did not cooperate with police and expressed no remorse, his prior exemplary character suggested a high prospect of rehabilitation.

The court sentenced the offender to 16 months’ imprisonment, followed by a further 12 months suspended for two years under specified conditions.

In delivering the final orders, Mr Bishop directed that no part of these proceedings that could reveal the identities of the complainants shall be published or broadcast anywhere in the Kingdom, in accordance with Section 119 of the Criminal Offences Act.

“That is the order of the court,” the judge concluded.

Government reforms student loan policy as 400 Tongans in Fiji study without scholarships: Deputy PM

By
Kalino Latu
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Nuku’alofa, Tonga — Deputy Prime Minister Taniela Fusimalohi has announced a major reform to Tonga Development Bank (TDB) loan policy aimed at supporting families of students studying in Fiji, where only more than 100 out of more than 500 Tongans are on government scholarships.

The reform of scholarship system is part of a wider initiative to strengthen Tonga’s workforce development and ensure fair access to higher education, especially in fields critical to national growth.

Speaking at a briefing this morning, Fusimalohi revealed that while more than 100 scholarships are funded by overseas donors, the Tonga Government currently manages only 20 to 30 scholarships.

The remaining 400 students are privately funded by their parents, prompting the government to revise its loan scheme to allow families to borrow money for their children’s education.

“This loan policy, initiated by our government, available at TDB, is designed to support students in critical fields such as medicine,” Fusimalohi said.

He acknowledged the contributions of China, Australia, and New Zealand, which continue to provide scholarship opportunities open to all Tongans.

However, he stressed the need for a more responsive and inclusive system to ensure students with potential are not left behind due to financial constraints.

The reform is part of a broader effort to strengthen Tonga’s human capital development and ensure equitable access to higher education, particularly in areas of national need.

Tonga established its first-ever government-owned national university in 2023, marking a significant milestone in the country’s education sector.

Prior to this, higher education in Tonga was primarily served by the University of the South Pacific (USP), based in Fiji and jointly owned by 12 regional member countries, including Tonga.

ʻAtenisi University, founded in 1975 by Professor Futa Helu, operated as a privately owned institution within Tonga.

Princess Angelika inaugurates new classrooms and facilities at GPS ‘Eueiki

By
Kaniva Staff
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‘Eueiki, Tonga — Her Royal Highness Princess Angelika Lātūfuipeka Halaevalu Mata’aho Napua ‘Okalani Tuku’aho officiated the opening ceremony of newly constructed and upgraded facilities at Government Primary School ‘Eueiki, marking a major milestone in Tonga’s post-disaster education recovery efforts.

Front view of the newly constructed two-classroom block at Government Primary School ‘Eueiki, officially inaugurated by Her Royal Highness Princess Angelika Lātūfuipeka. The facility is part of the Tonga Safe and Resilient Schools Project, designed to withstand natural disasters and provide a safe learning environment for students.

The project includes a newly built two-classroom block, a staff quarter, and a modern WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) facility designed for boys, girls, and students with disabilities.

Existing classrooms and staff quarters were also retrofitted to meet higher safety standards. The construction, valued at TOP$860,500, was carried out by Masila Construction Limited.

These upgrades are part of the Tonga Safe and Resilient Schools Project (TSRSP), led by the Ministry of Education and Training with financial support from the World Bank and the Government of Australia.

The initiative aims to strengthen the safety, resilience, and crisis-readiness of Tonga’s education infrastructure.

GPS ‘Eueiki is one of eleven “tsunami schools” rebuilt following the devastating Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haʻapai volcanic eruption and tsunami in 2021. Other completed schools include Tonga College Atele, GMS Te’ekiu, and GPS Kanokupolu.

Over forty additional “risk-based schools” across Tongatapu, Haʻapai, Vavaʻu, and the Niuas are also scheduled for upgrades under the program.

The new facilities have been engineered to withstand stronger cyclones, earthquakes, and other natural hazards, ensuring that schools remain safe learning environments in the face of future disasters.

Crown Prince honours 51 police officers with diplomas in general policing

By
Kaniva Staff
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Nuku’alofa, Tonga — His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukalala presented awards yesterday to 51 police officers who successfully completed the Diploma in General Policing Level 5, marking a significant milestone in Tonga’s law enforcement development.

His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukalala presents certificates to graduating officers at the Diploma in General Policing Level 5 ceremony, joined by Minister of Police Hon. Piveni Piukala and Police Commissioner Geoff Turner.

The Crown Prince’s presence and active participation in the ceremony underscored the importance of professional training within the Tonga Police Force.

They reflected the Royal Family’s continued support for strengthening public service across the nation.

The diploma recipients were recognised for their commitment to modern policing practices, leadership, and ethical conduct.

The qualification represents a key step in enhancing the capacity and professionalism of Tonga’s frontline officers.

“Professional policing is the foundation of a safe, peaceful, and prosperous Tonga,” said a spokesperson for the Tonga Police.

“This achievement is not only a personal accomplishment for the officers but also a meaningful contribution to national progress.”

The Diploma in General Policing Level 5 is part of an ongoing initiative to elevate law enforcement standards in Tonga, ensuring officers are equipped to meet the evolving challenges of public safety and community engagement.

Tonga secures $6 million grant from Japan to launch electronic passport system

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Nuku’alofa, Tonga — The Governments of Japan and Tonga signed an agreement on Thursday, September 25, 2025, to introduce an Electronic Machine-Readable Passport (EMRP) system in the Kingdom of Tonga.

His Royal Highness, Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, Tonga’s Minister for Foreign Affairs honoured the occasion and witnessed the signing ceremony by His Excellency Mr. INAGAKI Hisao, Ambassador of Japan to Tonga and Mr. Solomon Kantha, Chief of Mission and Subregional Coordinator for the South Pacific, International Organisation for Migration, Fiji.

The initiative is backed by a grant of 882 million Japanese Yen—approximately USD $6 million—from the Government of Japan.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, Tonga’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, and officiated by His Excellency Mr. Inagaki Hisao, Ambassador of Japan to Tonga, alongside Mr. Solomon Kantha, Chief of Mission and Subregional Coordinator for the South Pacific at the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).

Ambassador Inagaki praised the trilateral collaboration between Japan, Tonga, and IOM, noting that the e-passport system aligns with the goals of the PALM10 Leaders’ Declaration and the Joint Action Plan, particularly in the areas of peace, security, and digital connectivity.

Mr. Kantha emphasised the project’s people-centred approach, highlighting its role in equipping frontline officers with the tools and training needed to make informed decisions at the border.

The EMRP system marks the next phase of Japan’s support for Tonga’s border management, following the successful implementation of the Migration Information and Data Analysis System (MIDAS) in October 2024. IOM, which has been active in Tonga since 2018, will execute the project in close coordination with Tonga’s Immigration Division and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The new e-passport system will replace Tonga’s manual, paper-based passports, offering faster, more secure access to government services and international travel.

When law enforcers break the law: The Sopu police incident and the silence that followed

By
Kalino Latu
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Editorial – In May 2025, Tonga Police charged 14 civilians for gathering at a bush area in Mataki’eua, citing public drunkenness, loud music, and disorderly behaviour as serious concerns.

Minister of Police (L) and Police Commissioner Geoff Turner

The group of approximately 130 people had gathered overnight in Mataki’eua, prompting swift police intervention and public statements from the Ministry of Police emphasising the importance of law and order. Roadblocks were later set up around the area to prevent further social gatherings.

Yet, just three months later, in August 2025, a court ruling exposed a deeply troubling contradiction: several off-duty Police officers themselves had been involved in a drunken incident in Sopu in January 2024 — an event far more serious in nature.

The court found that on the evening of January 27, 2024, a group of police officers consumed alcohol during a dinner celebration at Popua Park.

Later that night, they continued drinking at the Reload Bar in Nuku’alofa until it closed around midnight.

Following this, they drove to Sopu for what has been “euphemistically” described as “a drink-up.”

The Police officers had been drinking heavily and were so intoxicated that their testimonies were deemed unreliable, according to court documents.

One officer admitted to consuming 24 bottles of beer before driving, while others rated their drunkenness between 5 and 10 on a scale where 10 meant completely drunk.

Court documents reveal that one of the police officers admitted to the judge that he had been driving a motor vehicle while completely unfit to do so due to the amount of alcohol he had consumed.

During the “drink up”, two police officers were reportedly injured following an alleged assault by their colleagues.

Two officers were subsequently charged with causing serious bodily harm and common assault.

However, the court acquitted both, citing a lack of evidence to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt.

In his ruling, Justice Paul Garlick KC said: “It is impossible to say how the events at Sopu turned from a “drink up” into a violent incident. Reluctantly, I am driven to make a finding of fact that I cannot rely upon the evidence of any of the police officers as accurate or reliable. I have reached this conclusion for three reasons. First, it is abundantly clear that they were all completely incapacitated as a result of the amount of alcohol they had consumed. Secondly, I cannot be sure that their evidence is fair and unbiased, rather than being based upon their concern to justify their conduct and to support their colleague who was injured in the drunken melee that blew up into an incident which was undoubtedly fuelled by alcohol, together with an abandonment of the sort of conduct that one would rightly expect of police officers, whether on duty or off-duty.”

The Judge stated that Sopu is a public place, and therefore, the police should not have been consuming alcohol there.

The irony is difficult to ignore. Police issued official statements warning the public and highlighting the seriousness of civilian misconduct during the Mataki’eua gathering. The Minister of Police even addressed the media, expressing concern over public drinking and dancing—and many of those involved were swiftly prosecuted.

Meanwhile, there has been no comparable level of public concern or accountability shown by the Ministry regarding the conduct of police officers involved in that violent, alcohol-fuelled incident in Sopu.

These officers, who are expected to uphold the law, have not faced any publicly disclosed disciplinary action, despite the court ruling in August 2025 that found their evidence unreliable due to extreme intoxication.

The court’s findings not only cast doubt on the officers’ credibility but also raise serious questions about double standards and accountability within the force.

If the law, transparency and accountability to the public are to be respected, they must be applied equally — especially by those who enforce them.

King Tupou VI arrives in Solomon Islands for USP graduation ceremony

By
Kalino Latu
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Honiara, Solomon Islands — His Majesty King Tupou VI of Tonga, who also serves as Chancellor of The University of the South Pacific (USP), has arrived in the Solomon Islands ahead of this week’s USP Graduation Ceremony in Honiara.

In true Pacific spirit, His Majesty was greeted at Honiara International Airport with a traditional welcome by Tafivaka, a cultural dance group from Tikopia. Tikopia is a Polynesian island in the Temotu Province, Solomon Islands. Photo.USP Campus, Solomons Islands

The King’s arrival marks a significant moment for the regional university, as it continues to celebrate academic achievement and unity across the Pacific.

His Majesty was welcomed at Honiara International Airport with a traditional cultural performance by Tafivaka, a dance group from Tikopia — a Polynesian island in the Temotu Province of Solomon Islands.

As Chancellor, King Tupou VI’s presence underscores USP’s role as a unifying institution for the Pacific region, bringing together students, families, and communities to celebrate education in a distinctly Pacific way.

The graduation ceremony is expected to draw attendees from across the region, highlighting the university’s reach and the importance of higher education in fostering regional development and cooperation.

Earlier this month, His Majesty King Tupou VI of Tonga was in Fiji for his formal appointment as Chancellor of the University of the South Pacific (USP).

The University of the South Pacific (USP) is a premier intergovernmental public research university serving 12 island nations across Oceania.

Established in 1968, USP is jointly owned by its member countries, including Tonga, and stands as a unique regional institution committed to delivering high-quality tertiary education and conducting research tailored to the specific needs of the Pacific region.

His Majesty is in Honiara for events at the University of the South Pacific (USP) campus in that country, located at King George VI in Honiara.

The campus was officially opened in October 2024.

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