Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku confirmed yesterday during a press conference that King Tupou VI has expressed dissatisfaction with Lord Tu‘i‘afitu, the Minister of Lands.
The Prime Minister revealed his office received a letter from the Privy Council telling of the King’s loss of confidence in the Minister.
“We’re looking at this case at the moment. The same process will be applied to Lord Tu‘i‘afitu as it was for me and the former Minister of Foreign Affairs,” the Prime Minister said.
Reports of Lord Tu‘i‘afitu’s alledged resignation surfaced earlier this month, with a Ministry of Lands memo claiming he intended to step down following concerns raised by the King.
This marks the latest instance of ministerial scrutiny after the King earlier this year expressed dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku and Fekita ‘Utoikamanu, leading to their eventual resignations from key portfolios.
Lord Tu‘i‘afitu’s fate remains undecided as the government examines the situation.
The King can only revoke a Minister’s appointment if he has been advised by the Prime Minister according to Clause 51 of the Constitution.