The Tongan Legislative Assembly has officially wrapped up its 2024-2025 session as of Wednesday, marking a crucial step toward the forthcoming general election slated for November 20, 2025. The ceremony featured speeches from three nobles—Lord Tu‘iha‘ateiho, Lord Ve‘ehala, and Lord Luani—who represented King Tupou VI.
In his comments, King Tupou VI expressed appreciation for the accomplishments of the parliament and government, achieved within a limited timeframe. He emphasized the importance of sustaining these efforts beyond the elections. The King recognized the valuable support from development partners and stressed the need for inclusivity among stakeholders to improve efficiency and reduce losses in government operations.
Furthermore, the King highlighted the vital role of cultural traditions, encouraging leaders to embody values for the younger generation to emulate. He pointed out the significance of the four core Tongan values: fakaʻapaʻapa, loto tō, feveitokai’aki, and māmahī’í me’a. Acknowledging the global job market’s demand for skilled English-speaking workers, King Tupou VI called for the establishment of training initiatives to meet these needs.
As the elections approach, the King reminded citizens to “vote wisely,” underscoring the critical importance of their participation in shaping the country’s future. He noted that the parliament’s foremost responsibility is to address the needs of the people, especially as Tonga nears the significant milestone of the 150th anniversary of its Constitution.
The assembly’s conclusion marks the beginning of a campaign atmosphere, with candidates preparing for what is expected to be an engaging election cycle. The political landscape shows increasing enthusiasm among potential candidates and citizens as they reflect on past governance challenges while looking forward to a thriving democratic future.
Tonga stands at a pivotal moment as it readies for its elections, emphasizing the crucial role of its citizens in determining the nation’s direction. This transition holds promise for a governance model that is more attuned to the aspirations and needs of the Tongan populace, fostering a hopeful outlook for the country’s future.