King Tupou VI has formally appointed Lord Vaea as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga, completing the leadership team for the new parliamentary term following the 2025 General Election.
In a statement issued by the Office of the Legislative Assembly, Lord Vaea, the No. 2 Representative of the Nobles for Tongatapu, was appointed in accordance with the Constitution of Tonga. He succeeds Lord Fakafanua, who was appointed Prime Minister a day earlier.
The King has also appointed Lord Tuʻihaʻangana, the No. 2 Representative of the Nobles for Haʻapai, as Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
The instruments of appointment for both roles were authorised and signed by King Tupou VI, with effect from 18 December 2025. The announcement was issued by the Chief Clerk of the Legislative Assembly yesterday.
Under Tonga’s constitutional framework, the Speaker presides over parliamentary proceedings, maintains order in the House, and plays a central role in upholding parliamentary rules and conventions. The Deputy Speaker supports these duties and may preside in the Speaker’s absence.
Lord Vaea brings experience as a nobles’ representative at a time when Parliament faces key legislative and governance priorities following the election. His appointment ensures continuity after Lord Fakafanua’s transition from the Speaker’s chair to the country’s top political office.
The completion of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker appointments formally concludes the establishment of Parliament’s leadership for the new term.
Attention now turns to the selection of the new Cabinet, the opening of Parliament and the legislative agenda of the incoming government, led by Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua, as it begins its mandate amid ongoing economic and social challenges facing Tonga.
