The Crown Prince, Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, will remain as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for His Majesty’s Armed Forces in the incoming cabinet under new Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua, the government has confirmed.

Lord Fakafanua announced at a media briefing held at the Royal Palace last week that the Crown Prince will continue in his dual ministerial portfolios, highlighting continuity in Tonga’s foreign relations and defence leadership.

The decision follows Lord Fakafanua’s election as prime minister-designate by the Legislative Assembly on 15 December, succeeding Dr ʻAisake Eke. “The Crown Prince will continue as Minister for His Majesty’s Armed Forces and Foreign Affairs,” Lord Fakafanua said, while noting that the remainder of the cabinet appointments are still being finalised.

Fakafanua has indicated his intention to assemble and swear in the full cabinet before Christmas, a timeline he described as key to ensuring seamless governance during the holiday period.

Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, heir to the Tongan throne, was first appointed to the foreign affairs and defence portfolios in January 2025 under Dr Eke’s administration. His retention in the new government signals stability in the Kingdom’s external engagement and security priorities.

Analysts say the Crown Prince’s continued presence in senior roles reflects both his experience and the importance of managing Tonga’s diplomatic relationships, particularly in a period of regional geopolitical interest in the Pacific. Experts further note that maintaining continuity in these portfolios can support Tonga’s ongoing engagements with partners such as New Zealand, Australia and Japan.

With the rest of the cabinet yet to be confirmed, attention now turns to the allocation of other portfolios and how the new government will address pressing national issues in the year ahead.