By Pesi Fonua

HM King Tupou VI congratulated the incoming Prime Minister, Hon. Siaosi Sovaleni and the newly elected members of parliament for the successful and peaceful transition of power, in his opening speech of Tonga’s 2022 parliament session in Nuku'alofa,  this morning, 11 January 2022.

The king kept his speech brief and to the point, saying “The challenge for the future is clear. We must prioritise our development goals because there are never enough resources for all our needs.”

He reminded members of parliament that fuel and food are Tonga’s largest imports.

“Our local market cannot sustain our balance of payments.”

He said that fuel can be offset to a certain extent with renewable energy priorities, but government must support local foods production, legislate and protect fledging primary industries like agriculture and fisheries.

“Indeed, it must prioritise private sector led development as clearly and jointly stated by our development partners and ourselves.”

The King also called for an accounting of where the nation is financially now.

“Our population must be both healthy and educated for the country to advance towards our development goals. COVID 19 is still a serious and immediate risk to all citizens, just as illegal drugs are still an ongoing risk to thepopulation but especially to our children.

“The challenge for the duration of this next election period is clear. How we are to answer those challenges should be formulated and led by this government but they must be discussed and accountable in how they are implemented here in Parliament,” he said.

Following the opening of Parliament, the Deputy Speaker Lord Tu’iha’angana announced the members of a committee to draft a response to His Majesty’s opening speech of the 2022 Parliament Session.

The committee members are the Speaker Lord Fakafanua, Lord Vaea, Lord Tu’ilakepa, PM Hon. Sovaleni, Hon. Tatafu Moeaki, Hon. Dr Saia Piukala, Hon. Poasi Tei, Hon. Tevita Puloka, Hon. ‘Aisake Eke, Hon. Taniela Fusimalohi and HOn. ‘Uhila Moelangi Fasi.

The Committee will meet at 10:00 am tomorrow

On the morning of Thursday, 13 January, parliament will convene for members to take their oath, and for the House to elect a Chairman of the Whole House Committee, members of the Standing Committees of the House and to pass the House’s response to the King's speech.

- Photos by Pesi Fonua and Eleanor Gee.