Tonga: Election-related violence unlikely during and after polls

On 23 October, the Tongan Parliament’s 2024-2025 session officially closed to allow campaigning toward the general election on 20 November 2025. Lord Tu‘iha‘ateiho, Lord Ve‘ehala, and Lord Luani, delivered an address on behalf of King Tupou VI, which praised the government’s swift progress but noted that more remains to be done after the elections. He urged citizens to “vote wisely”. Eighteen nobles will contest the nine nobles’ seats. 71 other candidates, including Prime Minister Dr ‘Aisake Valu Eke and former PM Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, are vying for the remaining 17 parliamentary seats. Rising living costs and fuel shortages are significant challenges presently affecting Tonga.

Assessment: Election-related violence is unlikely during and after the polls.King Tupou VI’s address indicates a measure of support for the current government that is highly likely to be heeded by a large number of voters. Rising living costs and fuel shortages are likely to be the main influence on voter decisions.

Sources: “King urges to ‘vote wisely’ as parliament term ends ahead of November poll,” Talanoa o Tonga, October 24, 2025; “Fuel shortage amid vessel delay,” Talanoa o Tonga, October 30, 2025; “Tonga election: What are the main issues ahead of the upcoming polls?” ABC, November 1, 2025; Iliesa Tora, “Candidates confirmed for Tonga election,” RNZ, October 10, 2025.