TONGA Prime Minister, Dr Aisake Valu Eke, has suspended Minister Paula Piveni Piukala from his roles as Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, and Public Enterprises due to misconduct allegations.
“The suspension relates to a formal report the Prime Minister received from the Anti-Corruption Commissioner (ACC) regarding serious allegations involving the Minister for Police,” according to Tongan government statement.
“The ACC advised that a preliminary investigation is underway into claims that the Minister improperly intervened in the enforcement of a court order prohibiting an individual from departing Tonga,’’ the statement said.
The minister was suspended from all ministerial duties while awaiting the outcome of the investigation, in the interest of procedural fairness and institutional propriety.
“The ACC is proceeding with the investigation as a matter of urgency, and all parties will be afforded a full and fair opportunity for representation,” the statement stated.
The Government has taken this bold move, aiming to maintain public confidence in government integrity while a preliminary investigation unfolds.