Tonga Elects New Prime Minister After Royal Power Struggle

 

Tonga's government has elected a new leader following a political crisis that saw the resignation of former Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni. Veteran politician ’Aisake Valu Eke was chosen as the new prime minister in a parliamentary vote on Tuesday, securing 16 votes to his opponent Viliami Latu’s eight. Eke's election comes two weeks after Sovaleni's abrupt resignation, which was fueled by a power struggle with the Tongan monarchy, particularly King Tupou VI.

Eke, who has been a member of parliament since 2010 and served as the country’s finance minister from 2014 to 2017, will take office officially in February. His leadership will steer Tonga toward the next general elections, set for November 2025. Sovaleni’s resignation followed a looming vote of no confidence, led by Eke, after tensions with the king reached a boiling point.

The monarchy in Tonga, though no longer holding the absolute power it once did, remains a central force in the country. The royal family’s influence persists, with the king still holding veto power over legislation and the authority to appoint the prime minister based on parliamentary advice. This residual power of the monarchy has long been a source of tension, especially after pro-democracy protests in 2006 resulted in the overthrow of much of the king’s political control.

Tonga, a small island nation with a population of approximately 106,000, has faced significant economic challenges, including a heavy debt burden. The country owes China’s Export-Import Bank around $130 million, nearly a third of its GDP, which was borrowed to help rebuild after the 2006 riots. With loan repayments set to increase this year, Tonga’s government faces growing economic pressure, particularly from China, which has become a key player in the region.

As Tonga navigates political instability and economic uncertainty, the election of Eke marks a pivotal moment for the nation, which will have to balance its political dynamics with the ongoing challenges of governance and international debt.