The King has approved a constitutional change requiring Noble Representatives to get the same legal clearance as People’s Representatives.

Under the amendment, nobles must provide a written clearance from both the Supreme Court and Magistrates’ Court confirming no outstanding court orders, as per Clause 65 of the Constitution.

Previously, this requirement only applied to People’s Representatives, and there were cases where nominees had their nomination revoked due to outstanding legal obligations.

The government, according to Kaniva news, said the amendment was agreed to by the Nobles’ Representatives, passed by the Legislative Assembly, and signed by the King.

This addresses a gap that allowed Noble candidates with court-imposed fines or orders still unresolved to stand for election, unlike their People’s counterparts.

Clause 65 already mandates candidates for People’s Representatives deliver the court clearance at nomination time.

Supporters say this levels the playing field and boosts accountability. Critics warn it may deter some nobles from participating. The change comes ahead of Tonga’s general elections in November.