Three new ministers took their oath today as members of Tonga’s Cabinet.
Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua announced last week that changes would be made after two Cabinet Ministers were found guilty of bribery.
Tongatapu One MP Tevita Puloka is the new Minister of Infrastructure. He replaces former Tongatapu Two MP Semisi Sika, who lost his seat after the courts found him guilty of misreporting campaign funds in relation to the 2025 general election.
Senior Ministry of Finance official Vika Sivoki Lavemaau is the new Minister of Finance, replacing Niua 17 MP Lata Tangimana, who was found guilty of bribery during the 2025 election campaign.
There has also been a reshuffle of ministerial portfolios, with former Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni moved to the Public Enterprises portfolio and also taking over Tourism.
The Tourism portfolio was previously held by Sika.
Former Ministry of Health chief executive Dr Siale ‘Akau’ola has been appointed as the new Minister of Health, replacing Hu’akavameiliku.
Both Lavemaau and Dr ‘Akau’ola have been appointed from outside Parliament, as allowed under Tonga’s Constitution.
The Tonga Constitution allows for the Prime Minister to appoint up to four Cabinet Ministers from outside of Parliament, but restricts the Cabinet size to 12 ministers, including the Prime Minister.
Lavemaau and Dr Akauola join Crown Prince Tupouto’a as the three unelected members of Cabinet.
Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua said the trio will be sworn into the House on Tuesday.
The three new Ministers attended special church services on Sunday, where the royal warrants were read to the families.
The royal warrants were issued by His Majesty King Tupou VI.
Meanwhile, by-elections for the two vacant seats for Tongatapu 2 and Niua 17 will be held on 8 October.
