By Tupou Vaipulu Jr

With an emphasis on youth empowerment, education, drugs, and climate change, the Tonga Youth Parliament 2024 was formally opened today with a ceremony held at the Parliament Chambers in Tongatapu.

The Speaker of Parliament, Lord Fakafanua stressed the vital roles that youth play, as well as the importance of their thoughts, skills and voices in regards to the political arena.

The most recent Tohi Kakai (Census) was recorded in 2021 and it shows that the majority of Tonga’s population (58.5%) is under the age of 29, he said.

“So, it is important to bring your thoughts, skills, and your voice to be included in discussions with the important themes that affect the youth and the country.”

Lord Fakafanua understands that it is often difficult for young people to secure leading political roles because of their age and the idea that they are inexperienced.

However, he said that is why there is a desperate need for youth to join the political arena.

The Tonga Youth Parliament targets youth aged 14-34 years and has been held five times since its inception in 2002. Its last session was held in 2021.

The Tonga Youth Parliament aims to:

1. Promote and support youth involvement in political processes.
2. Enhance understanding of parliamentary roles, functions, rules, and procedures.
3. Foster interest in civic activities, particularly parliamentary engagement.
4. Raise public awareness of youth perspectives on national issues and challenges.
5. Inspire and empower youth in leadership and decision-making.
6. Cultivate respect and tolerance for diverse viewpoints and emphasize the importance of adhering to rules for effective discussions.

This year’s event is supported by the Government of Tonga, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the Chinese Embassy in Nuku’alofa, in partnership with the Legislative Assembly of Tonga.

Tonga Youth Parliament (2024)

1.    Maria Goretti Mafi -  Tongatapu 1 People’s Representative
2.    Kioa Matahau - Tongatapu 2 People’s Representative
3.    Christy Langilangi - Tongatapu 3 People’s Representative
4.    Angelic Pale- Tongatapu 4 People’s Representative
5.    Adi Mitimiti Pasikala - Tongatapu 5 People’s Representative
6.    Viliami Penitani - Tongatapu 6 People’s Representative
7.    Sosefina Hafoka - Tongatapu 7 People’s Representative
8.    Ána Latu - Tongatapu 8 People’s Representative
9.    Maryanne Saafi - Tongatapu 9 People’s Representative
10.    Petelo Lelea - Tongatapu 10 People’s Representative
11.    Folau Maáke - ‘Eua 11 People’s Representative
12.    Lesieli Áholelei - Ha’apai 12 People’s Representative
13.    Temaleti Fangufangu - Ha’apai 13 People’s Representative
14.    Halamehi Asitamani - Vava’u 14 People’s Representative  
15.    Clarisse Paea - Vava’u 15 People’s Representative
16.    Fakaánaua Tonga - Vava’u 16 People’s Representative
17.    Viliami Kaufononga - Niuas 17 People’s Representative
18.    Joseph Áho - Tongatapu No. 1 Noble Representative
19.    Nehusita Halatanu - Tongatapu No. 2 Noble Representative
20.    Mckenly Fine - Tongatapu No. 3 Noble Representative
21.    Linita Helu - ‘Eua Noble Representative  
22.    Kafo’atu Tuítavuki - Ha’apai No. 1 Noble Representative
23.    Milika Úlupano - Ha’apai No. 2 Noble Representative
24.    Filimone Íloa - Vava’u No. 1 Noble Representative
25.    Sabrina Taéhia - Vava’u No. 2 Noble Representative
26.    Tomasi Palu - Niuas Noble Representative
27.    Racheal Guttenbeil - Minister of MEIDECC
28.    Tuílautala Maú - Minister of Finance
29.    Patelisio Patelisio - Minister of Health