Hugs follow suspense at Parliament House

FROM OUR ARCHIVES

Photos by Linny Folau and Pesi Fonua

Lord Tu'ivakano Prime Minister Designate.

There was an hour of suspense today  21 January 2010, while Members of Parliament waited at Parliament House for the Interim Speaker to return from his visit to the King and to announce the name of the new Prime Minister Designate.

A secret ballot was made shortly after 10:00am, on the second day of a Special Meeting to Elect a Prime Minister.

All speeches in support of the two nominees, Lord Tu'ivakano and 'Akilisi Pohiva were made the previous day.

Following the voting the Interim Speaker announced that one nominee had a majority and he was leaving at 11am to see the King at his Villa to give him the result.

Just before mid-day Lord Tupou returned and there was high tension in the House before he announced that Lord Tu'ivakano had won the ballot by 14-12.

Lord Tu'ivakano made a speech and then members left parliament with a mixed feelings. Outside the Parliament House members started patting each other on the back and hugging.

Sitiveni Halapua speaking in favour of 'Akilisi Pohiva on December 20.

'Uliti Uata speaking on December 20.

'Akilisi Pohiva speaking on December 20.

Interim Speaker, Lord Tupou announces the name of the new Prime Minister Designate on December 21.

Lord Tupou, and the acting clerks of the House.

Nobles Representatives waiting for the result of the ballot for PM.

Sitiveni Halapua and Noble Fusitu'a awaiting the result of the ballot.

Samiu Vaipulu and Sifa Tu'utafaiva wait for the result of the ballot.

Lord Tu'ivakano awaits the results of the ballot today.

People's Representatives listen to the result of the ballot.

Nobles Representatives listen to the result of the ballot shortly before noon.

The supporters of 'Akilisi Pohiva failed to win a majority in the ballot for PM.

The Ambassador of Japan HE Mr Yasuo Takase congratulates the new Prime Minister Designate Lord Tu'ivakano.

Lord Tu'ivakano receives congratulations from Sitiveni Halapua, with 'Akilisi Pohiva.

Semisi Tapueluelu hugs Lord Tu'ivakano.

Mo'ale Finau hugs Lord Tu'ivakano.

Sangster Saulala hugs Lord Tu'ivakano.

Lord Tu'ivakano hugs 'Uliti Uata.

'Uliti Uata and 'Akilisi Pohiva.

Semisi Sika congratulates Lord Tu'ivakano.

Outside Parliament House today, December 21, 2010.

Sitiveni Halapua and 'Akilisi Pohiva.