Tomifa Paea (48) the owner of the Puataukanave International Hotel in Neiafu has made it known that he will be contesting the parliamentary seat for Vava’u Constituency No.15 in Tonga’s General Election on November 27.

Tomifa from Fungamisi said today he would register for the first time as a candidate on October 23-24.

He said his dream as a private enterpreneur was to turn Vava’u into the centre of tourism in Tonga. He believed that shortfalls in decisions made had hindered the development of the transport sector, which is the key to tourism.

“My immediate task and vision is to open up the Lupepau’u Airport to international Airline to operate between Fiji, Apia and Pagopago with a long term goal to have direct flights from New Zealand and Australia. We can do so much for our people, but our individual agendas will not allow us to move forward as a nation. So let's stand together."

“I have decided to put aside my personal business interest and run as a candidate to help improve the livelihood of the people.”

Tomifa who has been operating his hotel since 1993, also owns the Vava'u Construction Company.