King Tupou VI Photo: 2019 Mark Tantrum
New legislation passed by Tonga's parliament could give the King of Tonga significantly more say in the country's foreign affairs.
His Majesty's Diplomatic Service Bill 2025 will replace Tonga's Ministry of Foreign Affairs with a new entity called His Majesty's Diplomatic Service.
"The Bill aims to modernise and strengthen the framework for the conduct and implementation of diplomatic and consular relations, while also enhancing oversight of immigration in alignment with national interests," the Tonga's Legislative Assembly said in a statement.
Matangi Tonga reported that the Bill was tabled by the Foreign Affairs Crown Prince Tupouto'a 'Ulukalala, and passed on 5 August.
It establishes the structure, operations, and responsibilities of His Majesty's Diplomatic Service.
The foreign affairs and defence portfolios were at the centre of a falling-out between King Tupou VI and former Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni last year.
King Tupou and former Prime Minister Huʻakavameiliku were at odds over the foreign affairs and defence portfolios last year. Photo: RNZ Pacific
The King's decision at the time was labelled as a move to take the kingdom back to the "dark ages".
Crown Prince Tupouto'a was appointed Foreign Minister and Minister for His Majesty's Armed Forces in January.
"The Eke government's newly passed bill - handing full control of Foreign Affairs back to the monarchy - threatens to unravel Tonga's fragile democratic progress," local media outlet Kaniva Tonga stated in a report.
It said the move "directly undermines" reforms that sought to transfer executive power from the monarchy to parliament.
"By restoring royal authority over a key ministry, the legislation risks reviving the very 'mistakes' the [King George V] once warned against: a retreat from accountable governance toward unchecked monarchy."
