People's table split to hand premiership to Nobles

Supporters of the outgoing Prime Minister Hon. Dr. 'Aisake Eke failed to convince their fellow People's Representatives to keep the premiership within their table on Monday. The election of the new Prime Minister from the Noble's table proved a marked shift in alliances, with Dr Eke's own deputy, Dr. Taniela Fusimalohi, publicly declaring support for the rival candidate, Lord Fakafanua, along with close allies of Eke's predecessor PM, Hon. Hu'akavameiliku (PR Tongatapu 3).