Dr Viliami Fukofuka, a 77-year old scholar, politician and advocate for rugby league in Tonga who died on Monday was laid to rest today in his home village, Tatakamotonga.
Born 25 February 1948 in his home village on the eastern side of Tongatapu, Fukofuka earned a Bachelor’s from Auckland University in 1969 and a Diploma in Education in London, 1979. His early career included roles as scholarships officer and principal at Tonga High School from 1979-1981 before becoming CEO at the Ministry of Education. He then led key business ventures before entering politics in 1990 as a member of parliament
A passionate sports advocate, Dr Fukofuka helped introduce rugby league to Tonga in 1986 alongside New Zealand‑Tonga footballer George Mann, declaring, “a sport for Tonga.” He often urged authorities to treat league “a piece of gold.” He treasured Tonga’s 1986 Pacific Cup debut and cheered Mate Ma’a Tonga’s 2017 World Cup achievements.
He was a stalwart of Tonga’s democratic movement, closely allied with the late ‘Akilisi Pōhiva and serving as editor of Kele’a newspaper since its founding in 1986. He once asserted that “the people have the right to know how the money the government receives is being spent” referring to the newspaper role in holding authorities accountable.
Fukofuka held leadership positions in education, youth, church and sports organisations, and was named in Marquis Who’s Who.
Throughout his career, he championed both education and sport, leaving a lasting imprint on Tonga’s cultural and political landscape. His dual roles as a public servant and sports pioneer reflected his deep commitment to national development.
He is survived by his wife Salote Afuhia Folaumoetu’i and their five children.
