-Three new Tongatapu People’s Representatives have been elected into the Legislative Assembly, after the by-elections on 03 November.
Electoral Commissioner Pita Vuki has announced the by-election results for the three constituencies of Tongatapu 4, Tongatapu 6 and Tongatapu 7 after polling closed Thursday.
The successful candidates are Mateni Tapueluelu [Tongatapu 4], Dulcie Elaine Tei [Tongatapu 6] and Paula Piveni Piukala [Tongatapu 7].
Dulcie Elaine Tei was elected for the first time, after winning the Tongatapu 6 constituency with 1308 votes. Ahead with 408 votes from the second other female candidate in her constituency, she is the wife of former Deputy Prime Minister Poasi Tei.
At the same time, Tapueluelu returns to Parliament.
November 2022 By-Election Results
Tongatapu 4
*Mateni Tapueluelu – 973
*Viliami ‘Alamameita Takau – 810
*’Isileli Pulu – 39
*Toutai ‘Ulupano – 14
*’Etika Cocker – 300
Tongatapu 6
*Tahifisi Vehikite – 114
*Sione Talanoa Fifita – 115
*Fane Fotu Fituafe – 900
*Sepeti Vakameilalo – 27
*Dulcie Elaine Tei – 1308
Tongatapu 7
*Feletiliki Fa’otusia – 694
*Paula Piveni Piukala – 979
* Kilisitina Saulala – 765
Meanwhile, a total of 13 candidates contested the parliamentary seats vacated by Tatafu Toma Moeaki for Tongatapu 4, Poasi Mataele Tei for Tongatapu 6, and Sione Sangster Saulala for Tongatapu 7.
Their elections were voided by the courts, resulting in their unseating, after they were unsuccessful in their appeals against bribery convictions.
SOURCE: TONGA WIRES/PACNEWS
