Tonga’s Prime Minister Resigns Ahead of No-Confidence Vote
Tonga’s political landscape took an unexpected turn as Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni resigned on Monday. The announcement came ahead of an anticipated motion for a vote of no confidence against his leadership.
“I’ll be resigning immediately according to the constitution,” Sovaleni declared to the nation’s parliament, as reported by the Matangi Tonga news website, citing the parliament office.
The sudden resignation has left the Pacific nation in a state of uncertainty. Parliament official Rhonda Hufanga confirmed the news, saying, “Yes, the prime minister has resigned but we’re not sure what happens next. The parliament returns this afternoon.”
The reasons behind the move are yet to be clarified, and it remains unclear who will step into the role of Prime Minister. The political developments have sparked conversations among Tongans, particularly the youth, who are keenly watching the unfolding events.
Tonga, a Polynesian kingdom of more than 170 South Pacific islands, has a population of around 100,000 people. The nation’s political stability is crucial for its development and international relations.
This development marks a significant moment in Tonga’s political history, and all eyes are on the parliament’s next steps.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
