Tonga Hosts First Ever Latimer House Dialogue

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A two-day Latimer House Dialogue opened today at the Fa’onelua Convention Center, bringing together Members of Parliament, members of the Executive, the Judiciary, public officials, and legal experts to promote ethical governance, accountability, and the separation of powers in Tonga.

Hosted by the Commonwealth in collaboration with the Legislative Assembly of Tonga, the event focuses on the Latimer House Principles—a set of Commonwealth standards guiding the relationship between Parliament, the Executive, and the Judiciary.

The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Lord Fakafanua, officially opened Tonga’s first-ever Latimer House Dialogue. This inaugural event brings together a diverse group of participants, including Members of Parliament, judges, the Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Ombudsman, government CEOs, civil society representatives, and youth.

In his keynote address, Lord Fakafanua highlighted the significance of the Latimer House Principles—adopted by Commonwealth leaders in 2003 as key guidelines for promoting good governance, parliamentary independence, and the rule of law. He noted that the principles advocate for institutional independence, judicial integrity, and parliamentary oversight to uphold democratic values and protect human rights.

For Tonga, the only remaining constitutional monarchy in the Pacific, these principles form the foundation of governance—particularly significant given it has been just over two decades since the 2010 democratic reforms.
“They serve as an overarching framework to strengthen governance, particularly in nations like the Kingdom of Tonga, by setting standards for effective and accountable democratic systems,” Lord Fakafanua said.

Dr. Elizabeth Macharia, Adviser and Head of the Rule of Law Section at the Commonwealth Secretariat, likened democracy, good governance, and the rule of law to woven mats—rooted in culture, passed down like heirlooms, and built through collective effort.

“The Commonwealth Secretariat is honoured to join this Talanoa, confident that through open and respectful dialogue, we can strengthen understanding and unity between the three branches—and together, weave a beautiful mat into Tonga’s rich tradition,” said Dr. Macharia.

The opening day featured sessions facilitated by prominent figures including Mr. Peter Boshier, former Chief Ombudsman of New Zealand; Mr. David Blunt, former Clerk of the New South Wales Parliament; and Mr. Paulo Kautoke, a veteran Tongan economist and former Senior Director at the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Key topics included the separation of powers and the roles of each branch of government in Tonga; the independence of Parliament and the Judiciary; checks and balances between the Legislature and Judiciary; and case studies on governance and legal interpretation.

Participants explored how the Latimer House Principles apply to Tonga’s context, addressing current challenges, legal gaps, and the importance of upholding constitutional roles in a democratic society.

Tomorrow’s sessions will focus on ethical leadership in public office, judicial appointments, and accountability mechanisms. The final session will involve group discussions and the development of recommendations to improve governance systems in Tonga.

The symposium underscores Tonga’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its democratic institutions and promote transparency, integrity, and responsible leadership across all branches of government.