Tonga newest parliamentarians were elected in two by-elections held on Thursday, with voters opting to elect family members of two former Cabinet ministers who were unseated over electoral offences.
The by-elections were called to fill the seats previously held by Semisi Sika (Tongatapu 2), former Minister for Infrastructure and Tourism, and Lataifaingata’a Tangimana (Ongo Niua 17), former Minister for Finance.
Both former MPs were unseated after being found guilty of bribery during the 2025 general election by the Nuku’alofa Magistrate Court. As a result, they had to resign from parliament.
Voters in both constituencies selected close family members of Sika and Tangimana’s to fill the parliamentary vacancies.
Tonga’s Electoral Commissioner Sam Vao confirmed the results late Thursday afternoon, after polling had closed at 4pm local time.
The new member for Tongatapu 2 is Alvin Lafu Sika, the brother of former member Semisi. Alvin secured 609 votes ahead of Tongan academic Malakai Matafonuafoóu Ófa ki Wakawaka Koloamatangi, who received 262 votes.
In Ongo Niua 17, ‘Aminiasi Tonga Pauu Tangimana won the seeat previously held by his father, Lataifaingata’a. ‘Aminiasi secured seat with 435 votes, ahead of Sitiveni Selui, who received 144 votes.
