Tonga has been awarded the opportunity to host the 2031 Pacific Games, a significant comeback seven years after the nation withdrew from hosting the 2019 edition. The announcement was made in Koror, Palau, where members of the Pacific Games Council cast their votes.
Tonga triumphed in the voting process, securing 12 votes compared to Fiji’s nine. This upcoming event will mark the first time the Pacific Games are held in Tonga since the Pacific Mini Games in 1989.
The successful bid by Tonga follows a tumultuous period, including the cancellation of the 2019 Games by former Prime Minister Samiuela Akilisi Pohiva, which led to the Games being relocated to Samoa. Subsequently, Tonga was suspended from the Pacific Games Council; however, a settlement reached two years ago reinstated the nation and paved the way for this hosting opportunity.
Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni represented Tonga at the meeting and expressed gratitude for the support the country received. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence that, with the commitment of the people and stakeholders, Tonga could successfully host the event.
The mood was jubilant among the Tongan delegation upon the announcement of the votes, according to journalist Melielau Manu, who reported on the celebration and determination of the team present in Palau. The delegation included prominent figures such as Lord Vaea, the Minister responsible for Sports, and Olympian Pita Taufatofua.
Despite a strong showing, Fiji was unable to secure enough votes in their favor during the election process.