Lataifaingata’a Tangimana has resigned as Minister for Finance but still keeps his seat as Niua 17 People's Representative to Tonga's Legislative Assembly, the Prime Minster Hon. Lord Fakafanua announced today, 15 April 2026.
PM Lord Fakafanua said at a media briefing today that the MP was no longer a member of Cabinet.
"The Minister of Finance’s resignation, is as a result of the court judgment that was issued on the 24th of March, and recently certified by the court to the Speaker of Parliament on the 9th of April."
The Niua 17 PR was found guilty of bribery by giving fish to voters to influence their votes ahead of the November 2025 General Election.
The PM said the Speaker of Parliament had notified all members of Parliament that the member for Niua 17 will be unseated on 27 April, however, the court approved an application to stay the judgment from 24 March, therefore the Niua 17 PR still remains a member of Parliament until his Court of Appeal session scheduled for early July.
Tangimana tendered his resignation to the PM on Monday, 13 April which then effective from today.
The ministerial portfolio for finance is currently with the prime minister.
"I will consider at a later date, whether it's appropriate to reshuffle cabinet or reassign the portfolio to someone else. So the responsibility for finance is currently with me as of today," PM Lord Fakafanua said.
