TONGA has a new Cabinet, three weeks after the election of Lord Fakafanua as Prime Minister.
Fakafanua announced the 11-member Cabinet after the appointments were made by King Tupou VI.
In addition to his role as PM, Fakafanua will hold the portfolios of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Communications and Climate Change (MEIDECC), Police, Fire and Emergency Services, and Prisons.
Dr Viliami Uasike Latu will be Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Trade and Economic Development.
The Diplomatic and Armed Service will fall under the control Crown Prince Tupouto’a Ulukalala, effectively ensuring that the king has oversight of these areas.
The other ministers are:
- Siaosi ‘Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni – Public Enterprises, Health
- Lataifaingata’a Tangimana – Finance and National Planning,
- Semisi Kioa Lafu Sika – Tourism, Infrastructure
- Dr Taniela Liku’ohihifo Fusimalohi – Lands, Survey, Planning and Natural Resources
- Dr Mo’ale ‘Otunuku – Education and Training
- Sevenitini Toumo’ua – Customs and Inland Revenue
- Viliami Sisifa – Agriculture, Food and Forests, Fisheries
- Fane Fotu Fituafe – Internal Affairs, Employment, Women, Social Protection, Youth and Sports
Tonga’s Parliament—the Fale Alea—has 26 members, 17 of whom are elected by the people and nine by the nobles.