Tonga has been awarded the opportunity to host the 2031 Pacific Games, following its withdrawal from the 2019 Games. The decision was made public on Friday during a vote held in Koror, Palau, where members of the Pacific Games Council cast their votes. Tonga received 12 votes, surpassing Fiji’s nine.
This will mark the first time Tonga has hosted the Pacific Games since the 1989 Pacific Mini Games. The island nation’s successful bid comes seven years after the former prime minister, the late Samiuela Akilisi Pohiva, canceled Tonga’s original hosting responsibilities for the 2019 Games, which were subsequently moved to Samoa.
Tonga faced a suspension from the Pacific Games Council after this move but resolved the issue two years ago through an out-of-court settlement, allowing the nation to regain its membership and the chance to host the Games in 2031.
Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni expressed gratitude to the Council members for their support. He emphasized the team’s commitment to organizing a successful event, highlighting the collaboration among the government, stakeholders, and the community.
The announcement was met with joy and celebration from the Tongan delegation present at the event, with notable figures including Lord Vaea, the Minister for Sports, and Olympian Pita Taufatofua in attendance. Despite a strong challenge from Fiji’s delegation, the votes ultimately favored Tonga.