Editor,

Regarding Mo‘ale Finau as Ha‘apai’s new Governor, Feb. 06, 2015: You do recall that Prime Minister ‘Akilisi Pōhiva criticized and attacked former PM Tu‘ivakanō viciously in 2011 on the appointments of Dr. ‘Ana Maui Taufe‘ulungaki with the Minister of Education portfolio, and Attorney Clive Edwards who had served in Parliament and Cabinet, the Minister of Law portfolio. 

Mr. Pōhiva had just appointed Mr. Fīnau − one of his cronies from the PTOA party – to be Governor of Ha‘apai. The Prime Minister is a "hypocrite" for criticizing former PM Tu‘ivaknō suggesting Mr. Pōhiva has higher standards, but now is doing the same exact thing? 

Without Qualifications

Shall we compare Mr. Finau’s qualifications to Dr. Taufe‘ulungaki or to Mr. Edwards’ qualifications? Mr. Finau failed in his bid for a second term as People’s Representative; he also failed a recount challenge to Ha‘apai #12 Vili Hingano’s seat. Furthermore, there are more qualified PRs and Lords to be appointed Governor of Ha‘apai.

 This appointment is favoritism again like unto the previous appointment of Mr. Pōhiva’s son to be his Personal Assistant. Mr. Finau is a . . . pet foot soldier for Mr. Pōhiva in the PTOA party, and was a polarizing political figure in the previous Parliament. He habitually preached his religious beliefs from the floor of the House, and was once kicked out.

Prime Minister Pōhiva is rewarding Mr. Fīnau with this appointment instead of finding the most qualified person.

This is “cronyism:” the appointment of friends and associates to positions of authority, without proper regard to their qualifications (American-Oxford Dictionary). Prime Minister Pōhiva’s recent favouritism appointments are the actions of a dictator.

Sione A. Mokofisi – MBA
Director: English, Journalism, and Languages Division
Tonga International Academy, Haveluloto, Tongatapu