Lord Fakafanua has been officially appointed as the 20th Prime Minister of Tonga by His Majesty King Tupou VI at a ceremony at the Royal Palace in Nuku’alofa yesterday.

The appointment follows his election as Prime Minister-designate by members of the Legislative Assembly on Monday.

Members of parliament with Lord Fakafanua during his appointment. Image: PM Office

Fatafehi Fakafānua, known as Lord Fakafanua, secured 16 votes in a secret ballot among the 26-member parliament, defeating caretaker Prime Minister Dr ʻAisake Valu Eke, who received 10 votes.

At 40, Lord Fakafanua becomes one of Tonga’s youngest prime ministers. A nobles’ representative for Ha’apai, he first entered the Legislative Assembly in 2008 and has served multiple terms as Speaker of the House.

In brief remarks after the swearing-in, Lord Fakafanua acknowledged the King’s support and expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in him by fellow MPs. He has previously emphasised unity in parliament and the need for cooperative leadership following a general election that saw reduced voter turnout.

The constitutional process requires the King to appoint a prime minister from among elected representatives based on the Assembly’s recommendation under Clause 50A of the Constitution.

(L-R) Lord Ma’afu, Lady Fakafanua, Lord Fakafanua, His Majesty King Tupou VI, HRH Princess ‘Eliana, HSH Prince Kalaniuvalu Lord Fotofili, Hon. Fakaolameilangi Fakafanua, HRH Crown Princess, Sinaitakala Tuku’aho. Image: PM Office

Lord Fakafanua’s political career has been marked by efforts to advance parliamentary reforms, including initiatives to widen representation for women and youth. His government now faces the task of appointing a cabinet, which will also require royal approval.

Observers note the significance of a noble leading the government in Tonga’s evolving democratic framework, with some voices urging careful balance between traditional institutions and representative governance.