Tonga: Economic priorities unlikely to change under new prime minister
On 15 December, Lord Fakafanua was elected as Prime Minister after securing 16 out of 26 votes in parliament, defeating caretaker Dr. Aisake Valu Eke. Lord Fakafanua becomes the second noble to hold the premiership role since the 2010 democratic reforms. Voter turnout was 49.4% of registered voters, making it the lowest turnout in election history.
Assessment: Fakafanua’s election continues the reassertion of power under the King and there is unlikely to be significant change from the economic priorities of the former PM. ‘Eke took over as PM in January 2025 via a vote of no confidence heavily supported by noble MPs – this followed conflict between Eke's predecessor and the King over responsibility for foreign affairs and defence policy. With the King establishing control over these portfolios, the PM’s authority is effectively limited to economic, infrastructure, and social policy. PM Fakafanua is unlikely to change this new status quo. While pro-democracy advocates are likely to vocalise their opposition to the ongoing reassertion of Monarchical power through speeches, posts, and small protests, the low voter turnout shows the majority of the public are presently apathetic to political developments – a driver for change in public attitudes will almost certainly be a worsening economic situation affecting livelihoods.
Sources: “Tongan Legislative Assembly 2025 General,” IEFS, 20 November 2025; Teuila Fuatai, “Tonga election: Eight new MPs elected to parliament amid continuing decline in voter turnout,” RNZ, 21 November 2025; “Lord Fakafanua elected Tonga’s new Prime Minister after parliamentary vote,” Talanoa o Tonga, 15 December 2025; Teuila Fuatai, “Tonga has a new prime minister,” RNZ, 15 December 2025.
