Results for Tonga

For the first time in 60 years, only one tropical storm has struck the Southern Hemisphere so far this year in Indonesia in late November, compared to an average of at least five storms by Christmas Day. However, at least eight to 10 tropical cyclones are expected to hit this season, while the sea temperature is warmer than usual.

A Christmas gift of $6,000 pa’anga was made to the Alonga Adult Disabled Centre, in Pea on December 22, by a Tongan family from the USA.

Petelo Tapueluelu who pleaded guilty to the manslaughter death of Kelekolio Fahiua in Neiafu received a fully suspended jail sentence on December 7.

A 35-year-old male prisoner has been charged with possession of an illicit drug, cannabis on December 14.

Ten recruit fire fighters, including one woman, graduated on December 20, after completing training at the Central Fire Station in Longolongo, Nuku'alofa.

Two ambulances to be used in ‘Eua and Ha’apai were handed over on December 19 to the Ministry of Health from the Government of Japan.

‘Akilisi Pohiva (76) has been elected by members of parliament as Tonga’s Prime Minister, declared at about 6:30pm, at Parliament House. He narrowly defeated his challenger, former Deputy PM, Siaosi Sovaleni by 14 to 12 votes. The result arrives four months after King Tupou VI dissolved parliament on August 24.

Over 100 children ended their Malie Va'inga "Just Play" tournament with a parade through Nuku’alofa promoting an end to violence on Saturday, 16 December.

Tonga Police are advising the public to be safe when going into the sea this summer. So far this year there have been 25 sea rescue missions that resulted in 91 lives being saved.