Fineasi Funaki (44) Tonga's former Minister of Tourism who was undergoing dialysis treatment for his kidney in Fiji died in Suva on Saturday, November 13.

The CEO of the Ministry of Tourism Sakopo Lolohea confirmed to Matangi Tonga today, November 16 that the deceased will be flown to Tongatapu on Saturday, November 20 and his funeral will be held at his home in Vaini next week.

Sakopo said Fineasi resigned from his Ministerial position in September this year in order to undergo dialysis treatment in Fiji.

Fineasi had not been well during the past few months and he was suffering from a combination of illnesses including kidney failure, diabetes, heart problems and high blood pressure.

The portfolio of the Minister of Tourism is currently under the Prime Minister's portfolio.

People's Rep

Prior to his appointment as the Minister of Tourism in May 2007, Fineasi was a Ha'apai People's Representative to the Tonga Legislative Assembly.

He attended Tonga College and the Teachers Training College in Tonga before pursuing further studies at the Brigham Young University in Hawaii.

Fineasi is survived by his wife Mele and three children.