Tonga’s State of Emergency has been renewed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within Tonga, starting from 8:00pm June 7 until 8:00pm July 5.

The Declaration of a State of Emergency was first declared by the Prime Minister, Hon. Rev Dr Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa on March 12, 2020 under the Emergency Management Act. 

Since then, it has been renewed on a monthly basis, and enforced by the Ministry of Police and His Majesty's Armed Forces.

The renewal for the emergency powers is still necessary so as to prevent the loss of human life due to the spread of the coronavirus worldwide, said the PM.

Curfew

Meanwhile, the National COVID-19 Restrictions Directions still applies, including night-time curfews from midnight to 5:00am.

Mass gatherings are not to exceed a total of 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors, except for religious services and education institutions. Funeral gatherings are also restricted to a total of 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors with an authorised officer to be present throughout.

Social distancing of 1.5 meters from any person should be practiced at all times, and all persons are to observe personal hand hygiene and follow all Public Health Advisories issued by the Ministry of Health in relation to COVID-19.

This was issued by Lord Fielakepa who is the Chief of the Defence Staff for HMAF and now Acting Commissioner of Tonga Police.