Aisake Eke Elected as Tonga's New Prime Minister
Eke takes office following the resignation of Siaosi Sovaleni, marking a shift in Tonga's political leadership ahead of the 2025 elections.
- Tonga's parliament elected Aisake Eke as prime minister in a secret ballot, winning 16 votes to 8 against Trade Minister Viliame Latu.
- Eke replaces Siaosi Sovaleni, who resigned earlier this month before facing a no-confidence vote initiated by Eke himself.
- Eke, a former finance minister, brings decades of experience in government and international financial reform to his new role.
- Tonga faces pressing challenges, including economic recovery from the pandemic, climate threats, and preparations for hosting the 2031 Pacific Games.
- The election highlights ongoing tensions between Tonga's monarchy and its elected government in the country's evolving democracy.