VOTERS in the Pacific’s only kingdom are voting today (Thursday) to elect 17 representatives to the Legislative Assembly. Their nobles will also vote to elect nine representatives.
The Pacific Island Forum Secretariat will monitor the election which will take place at 200 polling stations operated by close to 600 officials across the island group.
Eight women are among the 71 candidates vying for seats in Parliament.
Officials are optimistic that voting will close on time and counting will begin shortly after polls close.
There are four possible candidates for the post of prime minister – the incumbent, Dr Aisake Eke, who took on the role nine months ago; his predecessor Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, who resigned ahead of a no-confidence motion which some say was influenced by King Tupou VI; and nobles Lord Fakafanua and Lord Tu’ivakano.
According to the Supervisor of Elections, Peter Vuki, the results are expected to be announced tonight.