By Tupou Vaipulu Jr and Everest Hala
The new Speaker of the House, Lord Vaea, today welcomed Members of Parliament to the first sitting of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga for 2026.
The first item on the agenda of the House this morning was the swearing in of the MPs that were present.
Eight Noble’s Representatives and 15 People’s Representatives were sworn in. Three MPs were absent, including Lord Tu’ivakano, Piveni Piukala and Taniela Fusimalohi.
Cabinet Ministers were sworn in to their Ministerial duties.
Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala was sworn in as Minister of the newly-styled “His Majesty’s Diplomatic Services” and His Majesty’s Armed Forces.
Chair of the Whole House Committee
Lord Tu’ilakepa was named Chair of the Whole House Committee after an unanimous vote by the House.
He was nominated by Tevita Puloka, Tongatapu 1 People’s Representative, and was supported by Lord Ve’ehala, the ‘Eua Nobles Representative.
