Favoritism: PM appoints "Crony" to Ha'apai Governship

Mr. Pōhiva had just appointed Mr. Fīnau, one of his cronies from the PTOA party. Who is Mr. Fīnau, and what are his qualifications to be governor?

PM Pōhiva’s criticism was ostensibly directed at Dr. Taufe‘ulungaki and Mr. Edwards’ non-elected roles, but it was obvious Mr. Pōhiva was jealous of Dr. Taufe‘ulungaki. She was given the Ministry of Education portfolio, which Mr. Pōhiva coveted.

Without Qualifications

Shall we compare Mr. Finau’s qualifications to Dr. Taufe‘ulungaki or to Mr. Edwards’ qualifications? Mr. Finau failed in his bid for a second term People’s Representative, and there are more qualified PRs and Lords to be appointed Governor of Ha‘apai.

This appointment is favoritism again like the appointment of the PM’s son to be his Personal Assistant. Mr. Finau is a nobody; he’s a pet foot soldier for Mr. Pōhiva in the PTOA party, and a polarizing political figure.

Mr. Fīnau assisted Mr. Pōhiva in their illegal intrusion at Dr. Taufe’ulungaki’s office in 2013 without a warrant. He is rewarding Mr. Fīnau with this appointment instead of finding the most qualified person.

This is “cronyism:” the appointment of friends and associates to positions of authority, without proper regard to their qualifications (American-Oxford Dictionary).



Sione A. Mokofisi – MBA
Director: English, Journalism, and Languages Department
Tonga International Academy, Haveluloto, Tongatapu