Tonga: Noble comments highly likely to undermine public support for PM Eke
Around 6 November, Tonga’s Customs Minister Māteni Tapueluelu accused Police Minister Piveni Piukala of assisting Mormon leader Pita Foliaki Hopoate to leave Tonga despite a court travel ban issued on 29 October. Minister Tapueluelu claimed Hopoate was initially stopped at the airport but was allowed to depart for the United States following instructions allegedly from the Police Minister. On 8 November, Prime Minister ʻAisake Eke confirmed a police investigation into Piukala’s role. Subsequently, on 11 November, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) took over the investigation after the Police Commissioner cited conflict of interest concerns. Minister Piukala dismissed the ACC investigation as politically motivated, alleging judgements in the original case were incorrect. Tongatapu Noble’s Representative, Lord Vaea criticised PM Eke for not taking a firm decision on Minister Piukala. Lord Vaea also stated that several nobles are concerned about PM Eke’s lack of accountability.
Assessment: With the general election approaching on 20 November, Lord Vaea and other noble’s comments are highly likely an attempt to undermine public support for PM Eke to continue as PM even if he retains his seat. Piukala is highly unlikely to retain a ministerial position following the election.
Sources: “Police minister accused of helping Mormon leader escape travel ban,” Talanoa o Tonga, November 8, 2025; Kalino Latu, “Police investigation to be launched into Minister Piukala’s alleged role in Mormon leader’s escape from Tonga: PM Eke,” Kaniva Tonga, November 8, 2025; Kalino Latu, “Anti-Corruption Commission takes over probe into Police Minister’s alleged role in travel ban breach,” Kaniva Tonga, November 11, 2025; Kalino Latu, “Piukala dismisses ACC probe as ‘rubbish,’ alleges judge ‘admitted’ misreading charges,” Kaniva Tonga, November 14, 2025; Kalino Latu, “Critics slam PM Eke for inaction on Police Minister allegations despite his power to act,” Kaniva Tonga, November 16, 2025.
