The Legislative Assembly is comprised of 17 members elected by the people and 9 members elected by the nobles. Its main responsibilities are to make laws (that includes passing the annual budget) and nominating the Prime Minister from among its members after a general election to head the Executive.
When is a speaker elected?
The speaker of Parliament is elected by the members of Parliament (MP’s) at the first meeting of elected members after the general election.
What is different from the old system to elect a Speaker?
In the old system the speaker was appointed by the Monarchy.
Who is the Speaker?
Lord Fakafanua
Who is eligible to become a Speaker?
The Speaker can only be elected from the Nobles.
When was the current Speaker elected?
What is a general election?
A general election is usually referred to elections for an nation’s primary legislative body
When is the next general election?
November 2025
Can I stand as a candidate in a general election?
Yes only if one is over 21 years of age, a Tongan citizen, read and write in Tongan and must not be insane.
What happens to Select Committees when Parliament is dissolved?
Select committee will also be dissolved.
What happens to the Government when Parliament is dissolved?
The government will also be dissolved
Can I vote in the general election?
Yes, if you are over 21 years old and registered to vote, a Tongan citizen, not insane.
When was the last general election?
November 2021
When was the last by-election?
July 2023
Who decides to call a general election?
His Majesty King Tupou VI
What happens to the Government when a general election is called?
They become a take care government.
Who cannot vote in Tonga parliamentary election?
Non Tongan citizens, people who are not 21 years old, cannot read and write in Tongan and is mentally disabled
How many elected members are there in the House?
26
Who was the first female member?
Princess Mele Siu’ilikutapu
Do members have to live in their constituency?
Yes, every candidate has to reside in their constituency for at least 3 months before every general election