In a pivotal moment for Tongan politics, Fane Fangufangu Fituafe has made history by being re-elected as the sole female Member of Parliament (MP) for the second consecutive term, representing the Tongatapu 6 constituency. She won decisively with 978 votes, surpassing the incumbent Dulcie Tei, who received 835 votes. Fituafe’s achievement underscores a significant stride for women’s representation, as she stands as the only woman among a body of male representatives elected across the other constituencies.
In a recent interview, Fituafe expressed her commitment to prioritizing education and creating better opportunities for the youth of Tonga. She highlighted the urgent need to establish improved pathways to help young individuals avoid issues like drug use and unemployment. Drawing from her own experiences growing up in a farming family, she also aims to bolster Tonga’s agriculture exports, striving to enhance the reach of local produce in international markets.
Fituafe is particularly focused on amplifying the roles of women within society, advocating for increased spaces and opportunities that will empower Tongan women and guide her legislative initiatives. The Tongatapu 6 constituency stands out as a political landmark for female representation, especially after it elected the first woman MP during a national by-election in 2022 due to the invalidation of a previous MP’s victory over bribery allegations.
The recent elections saw the return of ten incumbent MPs, accompanied by seven newly elected members from constituencies including Tongatapu 2, 6, 8, Ha’apai 12, 13, Vava’u 15, and Niua 17. Semisi Sika made a notable comeback in Tongatapu 2 seat, while Dr. ‘Alani Tangitau achieved a significant victory in Vava’u 15, defeating long-serving MP Samiu Vaipulu by nearly 400 votes. Additionally, caretaker Prime Minister Dr. ‘Aisake Eke topped the national vote count with 1,568 votes from Tongatapu 5.
Nonetheless, there are concerns regarding low voter turnout voiced by Electoral Commissioner Pita Vuki, particularly in Tongatapu 8, which recorded only 28.36 percent participation among registered voters. As the election results are finalized, attention is now shifting toward forming the new government and determining Tonga’s next Prime Minister. This process will adhere to constitutional protocols, requiring the interim Speaker to invite nominations within ten days followed by a secret ballot vote.
This election represents a hopeful milestone toward enhancing women’s political representation in Tonga, setting a powerful example for future generations and paving the way for meaningful change in governance.