TONGAN Lands Minister, Dr Taniela Fusimalohi, has been found guilty of electoral bribery – the third cabinet member linked to misconduct in the 2025 general election.
Fusimalohi donated a Starlink terminal to his constituency, an act the court deemed was bribery.
Earlier, the court also found Tourism Minister Semisi Sika guilty for failing to declare a $10,000 payment to a dance academy, which prosecutors argued was an attempt to influence voters.
Finance Minister Lata Tangimana was convicted for providing fish to constituents. He has resigned his portfolio but remains a Member of Parliament while appealing the ruling.
In contrast, Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Viliami Latu was acquitted by the Supreme Court which dismissed an election petition against him due to a lack of evidence.
The convictions threaten to destabilize the government of Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua.
Under Tongan law, bribery findings typically require an MP to be “unseated.”
The Speaker of Parliament has been formally notified of the rulings, potentially triggering by-elections and a major cabinet reshuffle.
The court has strictly enforced rules against any donations made within three months of an election, even if those donations were for charitable causes.
Legal experts note that such gifts are interpreted as attempts to influence voters, regardless of the donor’s stated intent.
The government has yet to issue a formal response to the growing list of judicial rulings against its ministers.
Source: ABC Pacific
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