King approves new cabinet ministers and governor [1]
Monday, January 25, 2021 - 19:36. Updated on Monday, January 25, 2021 - 19:37.
A reshuffle in the Tongan Cabinet, was approved today by HM King Tupou VI.
The former Minister of Trade and Economic Development, Hon. Samiu Kuita Vaipulu becomes the new Minister of Justice and Prisons, to replace Vuna Fa’otusia, who resigned as the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Justice and Prison, for health reasons.
Vuna Fa’otusia is still a member of parliament, as the No. 7 People’s Representative for Tongatapu.
Meanwhile, a newcomer, Hon. Tatafu Toma Moeaki, replaces Hon. Samiu Vaipulu as the Minister of Trade and Economic Development. Hon. Moeaki is an unelected Member of Parliament.
The Prime Minister has the privilege to appoint two unelected Members of Parliament as members of his Cabinet. The other unelected member of the Prime Minister’s Cabinet is the current Minister of Health, Hon. Dr ‘Amelia Tu’ipulotu Afuha’amango.
The King has also approved the appointment of Mr Viliami Manuopangai Hingano as the new Governor of Ha’apai, effective from tomorrow, 26 January 2021. He replaces Dr Mohenoa Puloka.