Democratic Party of the Friendly Islands
The Democratic Party of the Friendly Islands (Tongan: Paati Temokalati ʻa e ʻOtu Motu ʻAngaʻofa) is a political party in Tonga. The party's leader at its foundation was 'Akilisi Pohiva.
Democratic Party of the Friendly Islands Paati Temokalati ʻa e ʻOtu Motu ʻAngaʻofa | |
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Abbreviation | DPFI |
Leader | Semisi Sika |
Founder | ʻAkilisi Pōhiva |
Founded | September 2010 |
Split from | Human Rights and Democracy Movement |
Ideology | Reformism |
Political position | Big tent[1] |
Fale Alea | 3 / 26 |
Constitution |
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Administrative divisions |
The party was launched in September 2010, and included several sitting People's Representatives who were part of the Human Rights and Democracy Movement.[2] Its objectives upon foundation included government transparency and economic reform.[3]
The "Friendly Islands" are a name originally given to Tonga by Captain James Cook.[4]
2010 elections
The party contested all 17 people's seats in the 2010 elections,[2] winning 12 of them. Following the election, it secured the support of one independent and was seeking the support of two others – 'Aisake Valu Eke and Sunia Fili – by offering them cabinet posts.[5]
Following the elections, Niuas MP Sosefo Fe’aomoeata Vakata reportedly quit the party to become an independent and support a noble candidate as Prime Minister.[6]
References
- "Tonga: Freedom in the World 2019 Report". Freedom House. Retrieved 16 December 2021.
- "Another new political party emerges in Tonga as country prepares for 2010 elections". Radio New Zealand International. 6 September 2010. Retrieved 7 September 2010.
- "Transparency on agenda in Tongan election". Australia Network News. 7 September 2010. Archived from the original on 7 July 2011. Retrieved 21 September 2010.
- "Un nouveau parti à Tonga" Archived 7 July 2011 at the Wayback Machine, ABC Radio Australia (French), 8 September 2010
- "Tonga election winners plan to co-opt two independents". Radio New Zealand International. Retrieved 27 November 2010.
- "Nobles now more likely to form next Tonga government". Radio New Zealand International. 8 December 2010. Retrieved 9 December 2010.