Tonga’s Prime Minister-designate, Lord Fakafanua, addressed concerns over the controversial proposal to sell Tongan passports as part of a citizenship-by-investment initiative. He stated that the scheme is still in the proposal stage and has not yet undergone the necessary parliamentary processes. During a recent session of the Legislative Assembly, Fakafanua emphasized that any proposal must be examined appropriately, undergo public consultation, and ultimately receive the approval of the King.
The citizenship proposal reportedly emerged after a leaked document surfaced, suggesting that foreigners could obtain Tongan citizenship for an investment of approximately US$190,000, with a family option costing US$220,000. The scheme, which has been promoted by the investment firm Henley & Partners, is estimated to potentially generate around US$400 million for the Tongan government over the next five years.
Fakafanua, former Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, and Tonga’s UN representative Va’inga Tone have held discussions with lobbyists for this project from September 2023 to May this year. However, rising concerns have been voiced by figures such as Mele ‘Amanaki, the general secretary of the Tonga Public Service Association, who plans to present a petition to halt the proposal, citing past issues with previous passport sales.
Amanaki highlighted that many Tongans, both within the islands and abroad, have expressed apprehension about the project, recalling previous attempts to sell passports in the 1980s which were marred by financial mismanagement. Previous programs led to significant revenue losses and public outrage, notably resulting in the 2006 Nuku’alofa riots, which prompted significant governmental reforms.
Lopeti Senituli, a political adviser, remarked on the ongoing skepticism around citizenship-for-cash schemes. He drew attention to the historical lack of transparency and accountability in financial dealings associated with similar past initiatives, underscoring the potential risks if such schemes were to be revived under the new administration.
Despite the contentious backdrop of providing citizenship for investment, Fakafanua remains open to discussing the merits of the proposal while ensuring it goes through the required scrutiny and public debate. This sentiment reflects a hope that Tongan officials will consider benefits for the nation carefully and responsibly before moving forward.