By Everest Hala
Tonga’s Judiciary has expressed grave concern and disappointment over a serious personal allegation made by a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga against the Lord Chief Justice, during the budget debates in the House this week, on 15 June 2026.
The Judiciary’s concern was conveyed to the House this morning, 16 June, by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Justice Hon. Dr Viliam Uasike Latu.
Addressing the House, the Deputy PM said the Judiciary had rejected the personal allegation..
“The Judiciary has strongly denied the allegation that was made,” he said.
The People’s Representative for Tongatapu no. 7, Hon. Piveni Piukala made a personal comment directed at the Lord Chief Justcie during the budget deliberations.
The Deputy PM told the House that the court has expressed serious concern and disappointment over the allegation made by Piukala.
He further stated that the claim "had damaged the credibility of the Judiciary, the third branch of government."
The Speaker of the House, Lord Vaea, said the Legislative Assembly staff were working on the matter.
Meanwhile, Piukala questioned the Justice Minister on which of the allegations he made were considered incorrect.
In response, the Deputy PM urged him to await the outcome of the review by House staff.
The House later resumed budget deliberations in the Whole House Committee.
