Tonga’s first Anti-Corruption Commissioner, New Zealander Chris LaHatte, was sworn in before the Tonga Cabinet last Friday, July 5. Mr. LaHatte, a lawyer from Wellington, was appointed by the King in Privy Council on March 28 this year.
“This is a significant milestone in our nation’s ongoing commitment to promoting transparency, integrity, and accountability in public office,” said the Government.
Tongan lawyer, Mele Fakatouato Mangisi, was appointed in June as the first Executive Director of the office, which started operations on July 1. “It has taken 17 years to establish this office since the legislation passed in 2007,” said Ms. Mangisi.
The Office of the Anti-Corruption Commissioner is an independent body responsible for investigating and preventing corruption within Tonga. It has the authority to review, investigate, and prosecute corrupt practices by public officials.
“These relationships are essential for the effective functioning of the Office and for fostering a collaborative approach to combating corruption,” stated the new office-holders in a statement.
Mr. LaHatte, with extensive experience as a barrister, mediator, and Ombudsman, and Ms. Mangisi will lead the office in promoting integrity and fighting corruption in Tonga.
