Former Minister of Justice and Attorney General ,KC ‘Alisi Taumoepeau Calls for Greater Representation of Women in Parliament at PPW 2025 Opening.

Former Member of Parliament and Attorney General, KC ‘Alisi Taumoepeau, has called for increased participation of women in Tonga’s national legislature, emphasising the importance of their voices in shaping inclusive and effective national policies.

Delivering the keynote address at the official opening of the Practice Parliament for Women 2025 (PPW 2025), Taumoepeau highlighted the unique perspectives women bring to key issues such as family, education, and health—areas that are central to community wellbeing.

“Despite comprising half of Tonga’s population, women’s representation in Parliament remains disproportionately low,” she stated. “The perspectives of women—as mothers, daughters, and wives—are essential in national decision-making processes.”

Taumoepeau, who also holds the distinction of being Tonga’s first female Ombudsman, expressed hope that the PPW 2025 initiative would inspire more women to contest the upcoming general election in November. Since women were granted the right to vote in 1951, only seven women have been elected to Tonga’s Parliament. At present, only three women serve: one elected and two appointed members.

The event also featured remarks from PPW 2025 Prime Minister-Designate Mele Satini Finau, who extended her gratitude to the Legislative Assembly and development partners for supporting the initiative.

Hon. Dulcie Tei, Tonga’s only elected female MP, delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the participants’ courage and the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through the Pacific Parliaments Effectiveness Initiative (PPEI) which is funded by the New Zealand Government, the Australian Government, Chinese Embassy, and the Balance of Power initiative, in partnership with the Legislative Assembly of Tonga.

Participants also shared personal reflections on how the program has broadened their leadership aspirations.

Mele Satini Finau, a mother of seven and a staff member at Tonga National University, noted “Women bring unique insights, especially regarding children and vulnerable groups.

Through tools such as motions and petitions, we can ensure these issues are prioritised in national discussions—making Parliament more inclusive and effective.”

Losaline Fonua, Finance Manager at the Tonga Health Promotion Program, remarked that the experience demonstrated how women's voices can significantly strengthen parliamentary outcomes.

Nehusita Halatanu (34), Noble Representative No. 2 for Tongatapu, shared how the initiative empowered her to appreciate and promote women’s leadership:
“It inspires me to strengthen women’s representation not only in Tonga but throughout the Pacific.”

Paea He Lotu Fekau, one of the youngest participants, voiced her commitment to encouraging more young women to pursue political leadership:

“No matter our age, it’s never too late to rise, support one another, and ensure women’s voices are heard in Parliament.”

The Practice Parliament for Women 2025 resumes tomorrow for its second and final sitting day.