By Katalina SIasau
Opposition to several government budget policies intensified in the House, as deliberations on the national budget resumed today, Monday 15 June.
Members of Parliament scrutinized the allocation of $18 million paʻanga to subsidise household electricity costs and a proposed $3.2 million handout for Lulutai Airlines Limited, to offset domestic fuel surcharges on inter-island airfares.
In the Whole House Committee meeting today, 15 June 2026, People’s Representative for Tongatapu No. 10, Hon. Kapelieli Lanumata questioned the government’s ability to offset the projected $38.1 million budget deficit through government bonds.
He noted that 49% of the overall budget is funded through budget support and questioned what would happen if investors showed no interest in purchasing the bonds.
The PR also raised concerns over the proposed $18 million electricity subsidy for households, noting there is also an increase in non-fuel losses reflected in electricity bills.
Additionally, he expressed concern over the $11 million allocated for overtime payments, particularly for hospital staff and employees of the Ministry of Education.
People’s Representative for Tongatapu No. 5, Hon. Dr ‘Aisake Eke, echoed concerns that government bonds may fail to generate the expected revenue.
He also raised concerns about rising fuel prices, noting the budget has no direct government support to ease fuel costs.
“A rope needs to be extended to every single person,” he said.
Dr. Eke further challenged the government’s allocation of funds, including the $18 million for electricity cost subsidies, a concern also supported by People’s Representative for Tongatapu No. 7, Hon. Piveni Piukala.
During deliberations last week, PR Lanumata, and People’s Representative for Vava’u No. 15, Hon. Dr ‘Alani Tangitau stressed the poor condition of school toilets across both primary and secondary schools. Lanumata urged the Prime Minister to redirect the $1 million allocated to the school breakfast programme towards improving school bathroom facilities.
Votes
The Chairman of the Whole House Committee, Lord Tu’ilakepa, today directed proceedings to continue with the Votes (budget allocations for Ministries and Offices).
The House reviewed Votes 1 to 4, including the Palace Office, which received an allocation of $5.2 million fully funded by the government; the Office of the Legislative Assembly (OLA), allocated $34.2 million, comprising $17 million in government funding and $17.2 million from development partners; the Office of the Auditor General, allocated $2.8 million; and the Ombudsman’s Office, was allocated $1.7 million.
The House adjourned and will resume at 10:00 am on Tuesday, 16 June 2026.
