In a surprising turn of events, the Tongan parliament has elected a new prime minister just two weeks after the previous leader resigned abruptly amid a power struggle with the nation’s royal family. Veteran politician ‘Aisake Valu Eke secured the top job after winning a secret ballot in the legislative assembly on Tuesday.
Eke, who has been a Member of Parliament since 2010 and previously served as finance minister, received 16 votes compared to his opponent Viliami Latu’s 8 votes. The election was called after former prime minister Siaosi Sovaleni stepped down on December 12 following tensions with influential King Tupou VI, fueling speculation of a growing rift between the government and monarchy.
Monarchy Retains Significant Power
While Tonga transitioned to a more democratic system after pro-democracy riots in 2006, the monarchy still wields considerable influence in the small Pacific island nation. The king appoints the prime minister on the recommendation of the parliament and retains the power to veto legislation.
The line of Tongan kings and queens stretches back more than 1,000 years, according to a government history. Although the monarchy no longer enjoys the unbridled power of old, it remains one of the most dominant institutions across the Tongan archipelago.
Challenging Economic Conditions
Eke will face significant challenges as he takes the helm of the heavily indebted island nation. Tonga owes China’s Export-Import Bank around $130 million, nearly a third of its GDP, from loans used to rebuild after the 2006 riots. Repayments on that debt are set to rise sharply starting this year, putting added strain on the government’s finances.
- Population: Approximately 106,000
- Government: Constitutional monarchy with parliamentary democracy
- Debt to China: Around $130 million (nearly 1/3 of GDP)
The incoming prime minister will need to navigate these economic headwinds while managing the delicate relationship between the elected government and the monarchy. Eke is set to lead Tonga until the next general elections slated for November 2025.
As a seasoned politician who has held key cabinet posts in the past, many are hoping Eke will bring some much-needed stability and effective governance to the country. However, with the king continuing to hold significant constitutional powers, the path forward for Tonga’s leadership remains uncertain.
