Staff members of Tonga’s Ministry of Lands and Survey have been informed about a report hinting at the resignation of their Minister, Lord Tu ‘i ‘afitu.
A leaked internal memo, seen by Kaniva News, purported to show a notice from the Ministry’s chief executive indicating that the King was allegedly no longer confident in the Minister’s handling of land issues.
The King’s concern follows a statement released by his Privy Council early this year, which showed a similar dissatisfaction from His Majesty King Tupou VI.
In that incident, the King told Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku that he had withdrawn his confidence and consent to his appointment as Minister of His Majesty’s Armed Forces and Fekita ‘Utoikamanu as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism.
The Ministry’s memo, dated Monday 11 November, claimed the Minister was considering stepping down following concerns allegedly raised by King Tupou VI.
The Ministry’s Chief Executive Taniela Kula has confirmed to Kaniva News that the leaked internal memo was from him but has said nothing is “official yet” about the resignation.
The memo claimed the Minister was intending to tender his resignation to the Prime Minister.
It said the staff were told that the Acting Prime Minister had relayed the King’s concerns to Lord Tu’i’afitu.
It also alleged the Minister will no longer sign ministerial and working-related documents.
He will stop using the ministerial vehicle and will not be attending his office, the memo read.
The King can only revoke a Minister’s appointment if he has been advised by the Prime Minister according to Clause 51 of the Constitution.
