From the House by Pesi Fonua

A National Budget of $618.3 million pa'anga for 2021-2022, an increase of $28.7 million on the previous year, was tabled into parliament, by the Tonga government this morning, 24 May.

After an introductory comment, the Prime Minister, Hon. Dr Rev Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa pointed out that the 2021-2022 National Budget is $28.7m more than the $589.6m National Budget of 2020-2021.

He stressed to members that the working of his government is based on “good faith”.

“Our trust is with God. Last year and this year, the same our trust is with God,” he proclaimed, and reminded the House that the theme of last year’s budget was “The Lord is my Refuge and my Fortress”.

Time’s up

He stressed that this year’s budget is the same as last year’s. He said this is the budget of an “Inclusive Government - Pule’anga ‘o e Kau Katoa”.

“We trust God”.

He reminded members that the House has only about three weeks to pass the budget, because on 14 June, the Fangata Military Camp in 'Eua will be launched to be followed by church conferences and feasting.

The Speaker reminded the PM that he had completed his allocated time and it was time for the House to proceed with its working schedule.

The Legislature dissolved into the Whole House Committee and the Chairman of the Whole House Committee, Lord Tu’i’afitu took his seat.

There were reports from the Finance Committee of the House and the Budget Statement from the Minister of Finance.

After morning tea break, the Prime Minister finished his speech, and detailed 14 working projects that were to be put in place to boost the Tongan Economy by 5% during the coming year.

He concluded his speech by reminding members, that the essence of the 2021-2022 National Budget, is to “Trust in God and we will not be forgotten. Jesus died on the cross to save us – it was god’s will.”

The Minister of Finance, Hon. Tevita Lavemaau, then proceeded to present his Budget Statement until the House closed for the day.