The Legislative Assembly, during its swearing-in of the new Cabinet ministers last Friday, denied a request by new Police Minister Piveni Piukala to take his oath of office in English rather than the Tongan language.
Piukala argued that it would be “more honourable” to take the oath in English, adding that the phrase “Truly Loyal” in the English version was not properly translated in Tongan.
Lord Vaea countered the Police Minister saying that the Tongan language has always been used. “Parliamentary traditions should not be changed.”
Lord Tu’iha’angana questioned the inconsistency, noting that Piukala had previously taken his parliamentary oath in Tongan but now wanted to switch to English..
Speaker of Parliament, Lord Fakafanua, reaffirmed that parliamentary policy requires oaths to be taken in Tongan but Piukala can be allowed, as allowed by the Constitution, to take his oath in English if the members agree.
Those supporting Piukala viewed the language choice as a personal matter between him and God. Deputy Prime Minister Taniela Fusimalohi added that the Tongan language has limitations and can sometimes be confusing which Lord Vaea objected to adding that, with respect to the Crown Prince, the new cabinet was “falling apart just as they’re about to set sail.”
Following the debate, the Speaker decided a vote was to be held on Piukala’s request.

Seven members, including PM ‘Aisake Eke, supported it, while thirteen, comprising all nobles and three cabinet ministers (Internal Affairs, Health and Agriculture), opposed.
HRH Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, who serves as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defense, abstained.
The session concluded with the selection of new members into parliament’s standing and select committees. Attendees included HRH Crown Princess Sinaitakala, Australia’s High Commissioner, and ambassadors from China and Japan.
The next parliamentary session will be scheduled upon notice.