The Tonga Parliament in session. Photo: Tonga Parliament
Tonga
Tonga's new parliament, headed by prime minister Lord Fakafanua, is set to have its first sitting on Thursday, 22 January.
The session will follow this week's royal address from King Tupou VI.
A parliament spokesperson said all members of parliament are set to be sworn in at the session.
Cabinet ministers will also be sworn in, as well as the heads of parliamentary committees.
Parliament will also deliberate on a written response to the King's address, which is due to be delivered by three nobles on Thursday.
Vanuatu
The head of Vanuatu's police force says more scrutiny will be applied to citizens who serve in the French Foreign Legion.
This comes after confirmation by police that the prime suspect in an armed robbery in Port Vila two weeks ago is a former member of the French Foreign Legion, who served around 2019.
Vanuatu's Police Commissioner, Kalshem Bongran, told the Daily Post that ni-Vanuatu citizens serving in the French Foreign Legion will be monitored.
The heist at Bauerfield International Airport, in which US$430,000 was stolen from a currency exchange company, has been described as a "well-coordinated and professionally executed armed robbery".
Police say most of the stolen money has been recovered.
Fiji
The Methodist Church of Fiji has implemented a program encouraging church officials - particularly reverends - to reduce kava consumption.
The decision was officially endorsed during last year's annual meeting.
FBC reported Methodist Church Secretary Jolame Lasawa saying the initiative aims to set a positive example for congregations and promote healthier lifestyles.
He said they want leaders to set the right example by cutting back on kava and smoking, spending more time with family, and opening up conversations on social issues in communities.
Samoa
Samoa's attorney general, Suʻa Hellene Wallwork, has stepped down.
The Attorney General is responsible for advising the government on legal matters and bringing criminal proceedings.
The Samoa Observer reported Su'a's three-year contract concluded on Tuesday, 13 January, and she is not seeking a renewal.
She was appointed in 2021 on an interim basis after the government sacked her predecessor.
She was given the full-time role in December 2022.
Vanuatu
The chairman of Vanuatu's Electoral Commission has dismissed a media report that the country will soon hold a national referendum.
Parliament has decided that a referendum is required to amend the constitution, to allow a one-year grace period for an elected prime minister after being chosen by MPs.
A local media article suggests the referendum is to follow two upcoming local elections, next month's Torba provincial elections and the Port Vila municipal election mid-year.
However the chairman, Edward Kaltamat, said it is misinformation to say the Commission will soon shift its focus to preparations for the referendum.
He added there are no funds allocated for the referendum anyway.
