Crown Prince Tupouto'a 'Ulukalala and two other nobles will open the 2023 session of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga, on Thursday 1 June.

The secondary schools’ marching has been cancelled in respect of the passing of HRH Princess Mele Siu'ilikutapu Kalaniuvalu Fotofili in Auckland, on 28 May. 

Parliament's Office stated today that the Crown Prince will deliver the address from King Tupou VI accompanied by Lord Niukapu and Lord Ve’ehala.

After the opening, the first agenda of the House is to respond to the King’s address before the House deliberates on Government's proposed budget 2023/24 financial year. The budget estimate is required to be passed before 1 July 2023.

Funeral

Meanwhile, the Speaker Lord Fakafanua and Legislative Assembly expressed their sincere condolences and sympathy to the Royal Family over HRH's passing.

The Princess was the first woman to become a member of the Legislative Assembly elected as a People’s Representative from 1975 to 1978.

HRH had maintained close ties with the Legislative Assembly of Tonga offiering her support and mentorship to succussive Tonga Youth and Girls Parliaments.

“The Legislative Assembly pays tribute to HRH for her pioneering stature and fearlessly paving the way for women in politics. Tonga has lost a great leader. One of the influential figures on Tongan history,” stated Parliament.

Return of the King and Queen

Meanwhile, King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau'u are expected to return to Tonga on Wednesday, 31 May from New Zealand, confirmed the Palace Office today.

The Office is also expected to release details of HRH's funeral soon, but preparations have already begun. She will be laid to rest at the Royal Tombs.