A Whistleblower Protection Bill to shield civil servants who report misconduct is being drafted, Prime Minister Eke announced last week.
The proposed legislation aims to protect government employees who expose corruption or abuse of power from retaliation. “Many civil servants witness potential wrongdoing but remain silent out of fear,” Eke said in Tongan. “This bill will give them the confidence to speak up—because corruption can only be stopped if it is first exposed.”
The Prime Minister emphasised the need to challenge the cultural norm of silence, where individuals fear embarrassment or repercussions for speaking out. “They must speak openly when they see something wrong, so we can take immediate action,” he stated.
While no implementation timeline was provided, Eke confirmed the draft is being prioritised amid growing calls for government accountability. If passed, Tonga would join Pacific neighbours like Fiji and Samoa in establishing formal whistleblower protections. Transparency International has long advocated for such measures in the region, where fear of reprisal often silences corruption witnesses.
The bill comes as Tonga’s Public Service Commission investigates several undisclosed allegations of official misconduct. Authorities say the new protections could help uncover systemic issues while safeguarding those who risk their careers to expose them.
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Eke’s broader commitment to transparency and accountability, as highlighted during his campaign and early tenure. His administration has upheld promises of holding weekly press conferences, which have been broadcast live online, demonstrating a strong willingness to engage with the media.
The proposed legislation also resonates with regional efforts to combat corruption. The Teieniwa Vision, endorsed by Pacific Island Forum Leaders in 2021, recognises the importance of whistleblower protections in promoting accountability and integrity.
As Tonga moves forward with this legislative initiative, it reflects a significant step towards fostering a culture of openness and integrity within its public service.
