AGP Executive Report

Tonga in the spotlight: The Kingdom of Tonga won a BIE Gold Award for its Expo 2020 pavilion design, praised for “aesthetic functionality” and visitor discovery, with the message focused on educating children and cutting plastic waste. Deep-sea science: Australian and Hawaiian researchers captured the first footage of the “ugliest” goblin shark alive in its natural habitat, including a sighting in the Tonga Trench, expanding what scientists know about where the species lives. Politics & representation: Te Pāti Māori has named Lisa Marie Murch as its Te Tai Tonga candidate for the 2026 election, highlighting her background in education and kaupapa Māori work. NRL & Tonga links: England’s Kai Pearce-Paul faces an uncertain recovery after a pectoral injury ahead of the World Cup, which includes a match against Tonga; meanwhile, Chiefs’ Tongan-heritage winger Kyren Taumoefolau scored twice in a Super Rugby Pacific demolition of the Crusaders. Pacific climate push: 350.org Pacific Climate Warriors urged more Pacific governments to back the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty ahead of COP in Bonn.

Tonga at Expo 2020: The Kingdom of Tonga won the BIE Gold Award for exhibition design, praised for “aesthetic functionality” and visitor discovery, with officials linking the win to King Tupou VI and Queen messages on educating children and cutting plastic waste. Deep-sea science (Tonga Trench): Australian and Hawaiian researchers report the first-ever live footage of the goblin shark in its natural habitat, including a sighting in the Tonga Trench, expanding what scientists thought they knew about the species’ range and depth. Commonwealth Games spotlight: Tonga has named Tala netball captain Hulita Veve and swimmer Finau Ohuafi as flag and baton bearers for Glasgow 2026. Pacific health & rights: A Pacific doctor’s graduation story highlights years of family sacrifice to earn a medical degree, while a Pacific commentary warns crypto scams are exploiting trust in the region. Local justice: Tonga Justice issues warnings over false information in birth, death and marriage registrations. Sports (NRL): Dragons have knocked back Luciano Leilua’s release request, preferring he stays through the 2026 season.

Pacific Labour & Migration: A new report spotlights how Pacific Islander women working illegally on Australian farms face pregnancy-related injury, debt, secrecy and fear when they lack proper visas. Scam Watch: Regulators warn crypto promoters are exploiting Pacific trust, including concerns raised about BG Wealth/DSJ EX targeting Tongan communities. Justice in the Pacific: A man charged over a mob beating of a North Shore lifeguard in Hawaii has pleaded not guilty, with the case tied to injuries for both a lifeguard and a 15-year-old. Tonga in Sport: Tonga names Hulita Veve and swimmer Finau Ohuafi as flag and baton bearers for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony. Deep-Sea Science (Tonga Trench): Scientists report the first-ever live observations of goblin sharks in their natural habitat, including footage from the Tonga Trench. Climate & Diplomacy: Pacific leaders renew calls for global peace under the Ocean of Peace Declaration as fuel costs bite, while UN member states back a landmark climate accountability push. Health: WHO releases a practical manual to help Western Pacific health workers strengthen diagnostic stewardship and tackle antimicrobial resistance.

Tonga Politics: Tonga’s election bribery case has taken another turn, with a third cabinet minister convicted over bribery allegations, deepening the country’s political crisis. Deep-Sea Governance: Tonga Offshore Mining Ltd has launched a new legal challenge at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, arguing the International Seabed Authority treated it unfairly in compliance processes—an issue that could shape Tonga’s future seabed exploitation path. Climate & Oceans: Pacific governments are being urged to back the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty ahead of the Bonn climate talks, with Tonga among those calling for a faster shift away from fossil fuels. Sports (Tonga in the spotlight): Team Tonga’s Commonwealth Games flag and baton bearers have been named for Glasgow 2026, with Tala netball captain Hulita Veve and swimmer Finau Ohuafi chosen for the opening ceremony. Health: The WHO has released a practical manual for Western Pacific health workers to strengthen diagnostic stewardship and tackle antimicrobial resistance. Maritime Update: A US Coast Guard cutter returned to Honolulu after Operation Blue Pacific, including a port call in Nuku’alofa and assistance with law enforcement in Tonga’s EEZ. Science (Pacific waters): Scientists have released rare footage of goblin sharks alive in the Tonga Trench, expanding what’s known about the species’ range and depth.

Deep-Sea Discovery: Scientists have filmed goblin sharks alive in the Tonga Trench and near Jarvis Island for the first time, expanding what’s known about the “living fossil” species and pushing its known range deeper into the Central Pacific. Climate & Energy Advocacy: 350.org Pacific Climate Warriors is urging Tonga and other Pacific governments to back the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty ahead of the Bonn climate talks, arguing the region can’t afford delay on a fossil-free transition. Tonga Sports Spotlight: Team Tonga has named flag bearer Hulita Veve and baton bearer Finau Ohuafi for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony. Local Governance & Integrity: Tonga’s Registrar General warns people that false information in birth, death, and marriage registrations is a criminal offence under the Civil Registration and Digital Identification Act 2025. Community Updates: Miss Heilala organisers warn the public about fake contestant posts online and say only verified channels will announce participants.

OFC U-16 Women’s Championship: Tahiti has withdrawn and Papua New Guinea has been approved as the replacement, reshaping Group B to include Tonga alongside PNG, Samoa and New Caledonia. Moana Pasifika future: New Zealand Rugby says a decision on who takes over Moana Pasifika’s licence is due by 30 June, with options including the Hawaii-based Kanaloa Consortium. Tonga election fallout: Tonga’s Supreme Court has convicted a third cabinet minister for electoral bribery, adding pressure on the coalition and raising the risk of by-elections. Civil registration warning: Tonga’s Registrar General warns people that false information in birth, death or marriage registrations is a criminal offence under the 2025 Civil Registration and Digital Identification Act. Miss Heilala scam alert: Organisers warn of fake contestant posts online and urge the public not to share unofficial announcements. Budget scrutiny: MPs questioned fuel prices and spending priorities, including the school breakfast programme, during budget debate. OFC U-19 qualifiers: Tonga bowed out after back-to-back defeats, including a 4-1 loss to hosts Cook Islands, setting up a winner-takes-all clash for qualification.

Tonga Politics: Tonga’s coalition government is under fresh pressure after Lands Minister Dr Taniela Fusimalohi was convicted of election bribery for donating a Starlink terminal during the 2025 campaign, following earlier court findings against Tourism Minister Semisi Sika and Finance Minister Lata Tangimana—rulings that could trigger by-elections and cabinet reshuffles. Civil Registration Warning: The Registrar General’s Office says false information in birth, death, or marriage registrations is a criminal offence under Tonga’s Civil Registration and Digital Identification Act 2025, with penalties including up to two years’ imprisonment and fines. OFC U-19 Football: Tonga’s Tu’ulalupe were knocked out of the OFC Under-19 qualifiers after back-to-back defeats, including a 4-1 loss to hosts Cook Islands, setting up a winner-takes-all final clash between Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea. Pacific Security & Health: Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine donations to Pacific nations topped 1 million doses, while the FMA warns that AI-driven deepfake-style investment scams are targeting communities, including Tongans, via fake trading apps. Regional Climate Watch: The Polynesian Voyaging Society says Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia have changed course due to rising El Niño concerns, with forecasts warning of worsening conditions across the Pacific.

Tonga Politics: Tonga’s coalition government is under fresh pressure after Lands Minister Dr Taniela Fusimalohi was found guilty of electoral bribery, following earlier convictions involving Tourism Minister Semisi Sika and Finance Minister Lata Tangimana—raising fears of by-elections and a cabinet reshuffle. Budget & Cost of Living: MPs grilled the national budget over fuel prices, spending priorities, overtime allocations and a proposed school breakfast programme, with officials pointing to global fuel pressures. Football (U19): The Cook Islands beat Tonga 4-0 in the OFC U-19 qualifiers in Rarotonga, with captain Dallas Rongokea scoring twice, setting up a winner-takes-all clash with Papua New Guinea. Sports (Tonga Rugby): Tonga Rugby named an Ikale Tahi 31-man squad for the 2026 World Rugby Nations Cup starting 4 July, mixing seasoned internationals with emerging talent. Regional Climate: The Polynesian Voyaging Society says Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia will change course due to rising El Niño risks. Maritime Security: Fiji authorities are investigating whether multiple drug packages found in Lau waters came from one drop or several, after 25 suspected packages were recovered near Ogea.

Tonga Election Crisis: Lands Minister Dr Taniela Fusimalohi has been found guilty of electoral bribery after a court ruled he provided Starlink terminals during the 2025 campaign, making him the third senior cabinet minister convicted and raising the risk of by-elections and a cabinet shake-up. OFC U-19 Qualifiers: Cook Islands beat Tonga 4-1 in Rarotonga, with captain Dallas Rongokea scoring twice, setting up a winner-takes-all final group match against Papua New Guinea for a spot at next year’s Samoa championship. Pacific Security & Drugs: Fiji authorities are investigating reports of cocaine packages found on remote Ogea beaches, with suspicions that cartels are using island routes across Fiji and Tonga. Moana Pasifika Survival: New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters says there’s still a pathway to keep the Super Rugby franchise alive, ruling out a direct government bailout and urging a sustainable plan. Community Health in South Auckland: Alexander Cafe in Ōtara is tackling fast-food and high-sugar diets by offering fresh meals and a safe community space for families and local groups. Maritime Patrol: The US Coast Guard cutter Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after Operation Blue Pacific, including port calls in Nuku’alofa and Vava’u and assistance with Tonga’s maritime enforcement.

Tonga Election Crisis: Tonga’s political pressure is rising fast after the Lands Minister, Dr Taniela Fusimalohi, was found guilty of electoral bribery for providing a Starlink terminal during the 2025 campaign—making him the third senior cabinet minister convicted over election misconduct, following Tourism Minister Semisi Sika’s court finding over an undeclared $10,000 dance academy payment and Finance Minister Lata Tangimana’s fish-to-constituents conviction (he’s resigned and is appealing). Local Impact: Under Tonga’s election law, bribery findings can mean an MP is “unseated,” with the Speaker already notified—raising the risk of by-elections and a cabinet reshuffle. Sports—OFC U-19: In Rarotonga, the Cook Islands opened their OFC U-19 qualifying with a 4-0 win over Tonga, setting up a key match against Papua New Guinea for a spot at the Samoa finals. Pacific Security & Fisheries: Australia’s RAAF C-27J Spartan joined Pacific surveillance under Operation Solania, identifying vessels of interest and supporting fisheries enforcement with Tonga and the Cook Islands in the wider effort to deter illegal fishing.

Tonga Politics: The High Court has found Tongan Lands Minister Dr Taniela Fusimalohi guilty of electoral bribery after donating a Starlink terminal to his constituency, with Tourism Minister Semisi Sika and Finance Minister Lata Tangimana also convicted—raising the risk of MPs being unseated, by-elections, and a cabinet reshuffle. Drug Trafficking: Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua says Tonga must stay on high alert as regional drug busts in Fiji show trafficking is intensifying, with Tonga’s proximity making vigilance “heightened” and Parliament pushing tougher penalties. Fisheries & Trade: Tonga is moving ahead with its WTO Fisheries Subsidies notification work, supported by the WTO Fish Fund, with a Nuku’alofa workshop laying groundwork for better government coordination. Ocean Security: Australia’s RAAF C-27J Spartan has flown surveillance missions over Cook Islands and Tonga waters under Operation Solania to deter illegal fishing, identifying vessels of interest. Community Safety: Police say a suspect charged after a viral video showed an elderly woman being beaten in a tavern in Mpumalanga, South Africa, is expected to appear in court. Culture: A new documentary on Jonah Lomu is heading home to the Pacific, with Tongan co-director Vea Mafile’o calling it deeply personal. Sports (Tonga in focus): PNG opened the OFC U-19 qualifying in Rarotonga with a 4-0 win over Tonga, while the Cook Islands play Tonga next.

Tonga Security & Drugs: PM Lord Fakafanua says Tonga is on high alert after a surge in large-scale drug busts in Fiji, warning that Tonga’s proximity makes vigilance essential as regional leaders coordinate a “network” for intelligence-sharing and stronger enforcement. Pacific Migration Pressures: Fiji’s immigration minister Viliame Naupoto told a regional meeting in Suva that conflicts, economic shocks and climate change are reshaping Pacific migration, while organised criminal networks are increasingly using trafficking, smuggling, fraud and cyber-enabled crime. Cybercrime Law Push: Legal officers from across the Pacific met in Fiji to finalise a regional handbook to strengthen cybercrime laws and “digital border” protection, with Tonga among the countries involved. Tsunami Monitoring: After a 7.8 quake off Mindanao, US tsunami advisories were issued for many Pacific coasts including Tonga, with New Zealand saying there’s no tsunami threat to it. Local Impact: Tonga Power Limited reported a vehicle-caused power outage in ʻĀhau, affecting parts of Tongatapu before restoration work continued. Sports (Tonga-linked): Papua New Guinea beat Tonga 4-0 in the OFC U-19 qualifiers opener in Rarotonga.

Cybercrime & Justice: Pacific legal experts meeting in Fiji are finalising a regional handbook to help countries strengthen cybercrime laws and defenses, with Tonga among the participants. Tsunami Watch: After a 7.8 quake off Mindanao, US tsunami advisories are in place across much of the Pacific including Tonga, urging coastal communities to stay alert and follow local guidance. Tonga Courts: The Land Court found a Kolofo’ou lease was secured through forgery and fraud using a false power of attorney, involving a family dispute over Mataele land. Water & Resilience: A solar-powered desalination project is now producing fresh water for remote Hunga and Matamaka, easing long-running shortages. Local Safety: Tonga Police report four arrests in Mpumalanga over unlicensed firearms and ammunition linked to a stolen vehicle probe. Boating Safety (NZ): Auckland’s lifejacket bylaw review is seeking Pacific community input, with mandatory rules for small vessels proposed. Sports (OFC U-19): Papua New Guinea opened OFC U-19 qualifiers with a 4-0 win over Tonga, led by a hat-trick from David Tita.

OFC U-19 Qualifiers: Papua New Guinea opened the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship qualifying campaign with a 4-0 win over Tonga in Rarotonga, with David Tita scoring a hat-trick as Tonga struggled to find a breakthrough. Tsunami Monitoring: After a powerful 7.8 earthquake struck off Mindanao in the Philippines, Pacific emergency agencies placed coastal areas on alert; New Zealand says there’s no tsunami threat to it, but regional advisories include Tonga and Samoa. Tonga Emancipation Day: Tonga marks 164 years since serfdom was abolished in 1862, with discussion also turning to how historical power structures compare to today’s politics. Local Courts: Tonga’s Land Court found a Kolofo’ou town allotment lease was secured using forgery and fraud involving a false power of attorney, in a dispute tied to Mataele family land. Outer Islands Water: A solar-powered desalination project is now producing up to 4,300 litres of fresh water per day for Hunga and Matamaka, easing long-running freshwater shortages. Boating Safety Push: Auckland Council is consulting Pacific communities on proposed lifejacket rules for small vessels, with Coastguard urging stronger protections after past drownings. Power Outage After Crash: A vehicle collision with a power pole in ʻĀhau caused a temporary outage affecting parts of Tongatapu, with restoration expected within hours.

OFC U19 Qualifiers: Papua New Guinea moved one step closer to the OFC U19 Men’s Championship after a 4-0 win over Tonga in Rarotonga, with David Tita scoring a hat-trick and setting up another goal. Local Courts: Tonga’s Supreme Court ordered Lofia Satini and his family to vacate a Kolofo’ou allotment in a long-running brothers’ land dispute, after finding the house was built without consent. Land & Finance: The Land Court rejected Tonga Development Bank’s bid to dismiss a land claim by Vila Malia Vaka’uta, saying the issues must be heard at trial. Community & Sport: Tonga’s secondary schools football competition kicked off in Veitongo, with matches across boys’ and girls’ age groups, while the Tonga Cycling Federation marked World Cycling Day with a 48km group ride across Tongatapu. Netball: Tongan shooter Uneeq Palavi starred for the Melbourne Mavericks in a derby win over the Vixens, helping set up a finals push.

Court Ruling: Tonga’s Supreme Court has ordered a brother and his family to vacate a Kolofo’ou allotment in a long-running family land dispute, after finding the younger brother built a house without consent. Land Court: The Land Court rejected Tonga Development Bank’s bid to strike out a land claim in Ma‘ufanga, saying the issues must be tested at trial over a lease tied to an alleged loan and consent order. Police Investigation: Sydney police are probing shots fired at a funeral venue for alleged “Coconut Cartel” leader Lorenzo Lemalu, with the service moved at the last minute; Tongan-descended men were among those arrested earlier in the cartel crackdown. Youth Football: Papua New Guinea opened the OFC U-19 qualifiers with a 4-0 win over Tonga, with David Tita scoring three as Tonga struggled to find an equaliser. Domestic Sport: Tonga’s 2026 Major League and secondary schools football competitions have kicked off, with clubs and hundreds of students starting the season on the pitch. Health & Security: A report warns Tonga is showing “warning signs” of rising drug-linked health risks, pointing to meth traces in wastewater and concerns about transmissible diseases.