Lord Fakafanua

Lord Fakafanua is a distinguished Tongan statesman and a strong advocate for ocean stewardship and Pacific regional unity. As the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of the Kingdom of Tonga, he plays a central role in shaping national policy and representing Tonga and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) interests on the global stage. Lord Fakafanua has dedicated his career to public service, with a deep commitment to civic education, good governance and empowering blue economic systems for islands. He was first elected to Parliament in 2009 and is currently serving his 3rd term as Speaker of the House. The Speaker has since been a leading voice on issues affecting Tonga and the wider Indo-Pacific region, including security, sports governance, climate change, ocean conservation, and youth empowerment.

Lord Fakafanua represents Tonga in many international forums, emphasizing the deep cultural, economic, and ecological connections Pacific Islanders share with the ocean. He has spoken at the United Nations, the Pacific Islands Forum, and Commonwealth settings, advocating for stronger protections for marine ecosystems and greater global action on climate change.