Tonga has been selected to host the 2031 Pacific Games, seven years after the country withdrew from sponsoring the 2019 event. This decision was made during a meeting in Koror, Palau, where members of the Pacific Games Council cast their votes.
Tonga received 12 votes, surpassing Fiji, which received nine votes. This will mark the first time Tonga has hosted the Pacific Games since the Pacific Mini Games in 1989.
The nation’s bid comes after a challenging period following its withdrawal in 2019 when then-Prime Minister Samiuela Akilisi Pohiva canceled the event, leading to its relocation to Samoa. Tonga faced a suspension from the Pacific Games Council but was reinstated in an out-of-court settlement two years ago, paving the way for this opportunity to host.
Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni expressed gratitude to the Council members for their support, highlighting the hard work ahead but expressing confidence in the nation’s ability to host the Games successfully.
Melielau Manu, a journalist covering the event, reported a lively atmosphere among the Tongan delegation as they celebrated the announcement of the vote results. The Tongan team, which included notable figures such as Minister for Sports Lord Vaea and Olympian Pita Taufatofua, demonstrated determination throughout the bidding process. Despite Fiji’s strong representation, they were ultimately unable to secure the hosting rights.