By 'Alakihihifo Vailala, PMN
From left to right: Lord Vaea, Lord Fohe and Lord Tu'iafitu. Photo: PMN / Supplied
Three nobles have resigned following Monday's sudden resignation of Tonga's Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni.
Speaking at a press conference in Nuku'alofa, caretaker Prime Minister Samiu Vaipulu confirmed three Ministers have now resigned; Lord Fohe who is the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forests, Lord Vaea, Minister for Internal Affairs and Lord Tu'i'afitu, Minister of Lands who resigned last month.
The three ministers are also part of Tonga's nobility and estate holders.
Discussions are taking place Tuesday on who is to fill in for the portfolios.
With the question of the legitimacy of Tonga's Cabinet lingers, Vaipulu confirmed all ministers will remain until 24 December when they select a new prime minister.
Vaipulu also ruled out the possibility of him contesting for the seat.
Tonga's Legislative Assembly at its temporary location in the Tongan National Cultural Centre Photo: VNP / Daniela Maoate-Cox
Hu'akavameiliku explains decision
Hu'akavameiliku said his decision to resign was to allow members to decide on a new prime minister following the two motions against him, but won't rule out running again for the seat in the upcoming 2025 election.
He emphasised Tonga's founding foundations of 'tauataina' or freedom.
The current parliamentary term has seen two motions of no confidence against the Prime Minister, both initiated by Tongatapu 5 representative, Dr 'Aisake Eke.
Apart from the role of prime minister, Hua'kavameiliku also holds the position as the chair of the Pacific Island Forum (PIF), a position Tonga has not held in 17 years.
He reaffirmed that discussions were still taking place over what happens next but PMN News understands whoever will be selected as prime minister will take on the role.
Hu'akavameiliku expressed determination to work with the incoming prime minister when it comes to the role ahead of PIF budget bid with the World Bank next year which is expected to be a US$1.5 billion proposal.
For now, Hu'akavameiliku still holds on to his ministerial portfolios and emphasised his plans to work more closely with each department ahead of 24 December vote, with a particular focus on education and police.
-PMN
