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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Each determination of electoral boundaries shall be made by dividing the Kingdom into 17 electoral constituencies containing an equal number of residents.
Source: The Electoral Boundaries Commission Act 2010, Art. 17 (1) https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-boundaries-commission-act-2010-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . The legislature (national/subnational)
Comments: Boundaries are established in Land Act
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer
Verified: 2003/07/18
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population b . Respecting natural barriers d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries f . Communities of interest/cultural concerns
Comments: In determining the degree of variation of size between electoral constituencies (within the 10 per centum allowance) the Commission shall give due consideration to (a) the principle of population equality between electoral constituencies; (b) density of population; (c) physical features including the natural boundaries of islands; (d) local, town, district and traditional divisions and administrative areas; (e) the keeping of villages, estates, districts and communities of interest intact where possible; and (f) community of interests within the proposed electoral constituency, including economic, social and regional interests.
Source: The Electoral Boundaries Commission Act 2010, Art. 17 (3), 18 https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-boundaries-commission-act-2010-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/07/18
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
d . Boundary Commission
Comments: The Electoral Boundaries Commission
Source: The Electoral Boundaries Commission Act 2010, Art. 16
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-boundaries-commission-act-2010-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
m . Not applicable
Comments: Representation and therefore boundaries is based on separate islands and does not seem to be weighted according to population numbers.
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer. Ian Campbell in Elections in Asia and the Pacific.
Verified: 2003/08/20
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
g . Inherited monarchy
Comments: The form of Government for this Kingdom is a Constitutional Government under His Majesty King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV his heirs and successors.
The King shall appoint a Privy Council to assist him in the discharge of his important functions.
Source: Constitution, Art. 30, 31, 32, 50: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
e . Appointed
Comments: The Cabinet or ministers of the King shall consist of the Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Lands, the Minister of Police and any other ministers whom His Majesty may be pleased to appoint.
Source: Constitution, Art. 51: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 30, 31: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: The King and the Legislative Assembly shall have power to enact laws, and the representatives of the nobles and the representatives of the people shall sit as one House. The Legislative Assembly of Tonga shall be composed of the Privy Councillors and Cabinet ministers, who shall sit as nobles, the representatives of the nobles, and representatives of the people. 17 of 26 representatives are directly elected by the people.
Source: Constitution, Art. 56, 57, 59: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: Ten representatives are elected for Tongatapu, three for Vava'u, two for Ha'apai and one each for Niuas and 'Eua.
Source: IPU Parline Database: https://data.ipu.org/node/174/elections/electoral-system?chamber_id=13543 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
k . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments: Unicameral Legislature
Source: IPU Parline Database: https://data.ipu.org/node/174/basic-information?chamber_id=13543 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: There is a two-class suffrage. Nobles vote only in the nobles' election; the people vote only in the election for people's representatives (Campbell in Elections in Asia & the Pacific). There are 5 Constituencies of varying size. They are the same for both People and Nobles. Representation is as followers: Tongatapu - 3 members; Vava'u - 2 members; Ha'apai - 2 members; Niuatoputapu-Niuafo'ou - 1 member; 'Eua - 1 member.
Source: Constitution Section 60. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021);
Campbell in Elections in Asia and the Pacific, p,815
Verified: 2021/09/14
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments: Unicameral Legislature
Source: IPU Parline Database: https://data.ipu.org/node/174/basic-information?chamber_id=13543 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: There shall be elected by the Nobles of the Kingdom from their number nine nobles as representatives of the nobles and there shall be elected by electors duly qualified nine representatives of the people. The Legislative Assembly shall determine how both classes of representatives shall be apportioned amongst the various districts. (Con. S.60)
Source: Constitution Section 60: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
c . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments: Unicameral Legislature
Source: IPU Parline Database: https://data.ipu.org/node/174/basic-information?chamber_id=13543 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: No political parties in Tonga- only individual candidates. Individual candidates are elected on a simple majority.
Source: Campbell in Elections in Asia and Pacific, p,820
Verified: 2021/09/14
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/07/18
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source: Pita Vuki, Chief Returning Officer
Verified: 2003/07/18
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/07/18
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length) b . Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom) c . On a fixed day of the week (specify day, specify if holiday) d . Other
Comments: a. 3 years (next 2005)
c. Thursday from 9am to 4pm. No holiday but employers need to release their employees for voting.
By-election if someone resigns or dies. Also the King has the power to dissolve the Legislative Assembly at any time and command that new elections take place.
Source: Constitution Sections 38 and 77: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021);
Electoral Act Section 10: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/08/14
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments: On the day or days fixed by the writ of election the returning officers shall severally attend at the polling station named between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., which shall be the time for voting unless otherwise stated in the writ of election.
Source: Electoral Act Section 10: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/07/18
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation d . Regulations or administrative rules
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Tonga: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021);
Electoral Commission Act 2010: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021);
Electoral Boundaries Commission Act 2010: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-boundaries-commission-act-2010-1 (2021);
Electoral Regulations 2010: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-regulations-2010/view (2021);
Amendments can be found here: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2010/view (2021).
Verified: 2021/09/13
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: Latest electoral law passed in 2010, amendments passed in 2014.
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021);
Electoral Amendment Act 2014: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2014 (2021).
Verified: 2021/09/13
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Tonga: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021);
Electoral Act (as amended in 2010): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2010/view (2021);
Electoral Commission Act 2010: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021);
Electoral Boundaries Commission Act 2010: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-boundaries-commission-act-2010-1 (2021);
Electoral Regulations 2010: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-regulations-2010/view (2021).
Verified: 2021/09/13
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Tonga, Art. 64: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021).
Verified: 2021/09/13
LF005
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer:
a . National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: Local elections held in 2001 - next in 2004
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer
Verified: 2003/07/18
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/13
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary c . Specially Appointed/Elected Electoral Tribunal
Comments: a) An election petition may be presented to the Supreme Court by a person who voted or had a right to vote at the election, by a person claiming to have had a fight to be elected or returned at the election, or by a person alleging himself to have been a candidate at the election.
c)The Electoral Appeal Committee deals with any person whose application for registration as an elector has been refused, or whose name has been removed from the register, or who disputes the electoral district in which he has been registered.
Source: Electoral Act (as amended in 2014), Art. 6, 26: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2014 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
d . Legislature
Comments: Appeal Committee appointed by the Council on recommendation from Supervisor of Election. Note the Electoral Act provides for election petitions to be heard and tried by the Supreme Court.
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002. Electoral Act Part 5 - Election petitions
Verified: 2006/03/15
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates c . Voters e . Other
Comments: Other: petitions may also be presented by "people who had the right to vote" and a person alleging himself to have been a candidate at the election, as well as candidates and voters.
Source: Electoral Act Part V Section 26: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments: Supreme Court
Source: Electoral Act Part V Section 30: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: Tonga Electoral Commission
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/13
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level
Comments:
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 10: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/14
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
b . The Prime Minister
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act Section 3: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/14
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
b . The Prime Minister g . Other
Comments: The funds available to the Commission shall be allocated by the Legislative Assembly for that purpose or granted by an external agency or government for general purposes, for a specific purpose, or for the remuneration and benefit of specialists.
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 11
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/14
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
g . Other
Comments: The Commission shall report to His Majesty the King and the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly on its activities for each calendar year by 30 March in the next year and upon the conduct of any general election, and on matters arising from such experience, within 3 months of the general election.
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 14
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/14
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: The Commission shall consist of a person appointed by the King for a term of five years, who will be the Chairman, the Supervisor of Elections, and a person appointed by the King for such term as he may deem fit
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 4
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Electoral Commission Act 2012, Art. 2 Amendment
http://www.paclii.org/to/legis/num_act/eca2012302.pdf (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/14
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
d . Presidential/ Prime Minister appointment
Comments: The Prime Minister appoints the Supervisor of Elections
Source: Electoral Act Section 3: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/14
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
b . Independent
Comments: In the exercise of its functions and duties, the Commission shall be independent.
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 10 (1), 4 (2)
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2014/11/19
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: The Commission shall consist of a person appointed by the King for a term of five years, who will be the Chairman, the Supervisor of Elections, and a person appointed by the King for such term as he may deem fit.
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 10 (1)
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Electoral Commission Act 2012, Art. 2 Amendment
http://www.paclii.org/to/legis/num_act/eca2012302.pdf (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/14
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
e . No Information Available
Comments: The Commission shall consist of a person appointed by the King for a term of five years, who will be the Chairman, the Supervisor of Elections, and a person appointed by the King for such term as he may deem fit.
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Electoral Commission Act 2012, Art. 2 Amendment
http://www.paclii.org/to/legis/num_act/eca2012302.pdf (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/14
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State
Comments: The Commission shall consist of a person appointed by the King for a term of five years, who will be the Chairman, the Supervisor of Elections, and a person appointed by the King for such term as he may deem fit.
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 4
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Electoral Commission Act 2012, Art. 2 Amendment
http://www.paclii.org/to/legis/num_act/eca2012302.pdf (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/14
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Electoral Commission shall devise, undertake and review programmes of education for voters, candidates and others involved in elections.
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 10 (2 g): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
b . Election time only
Comments:
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 10 (2 g): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Electoral Commission shall devise, undertake and review programmes of education for voters, candidates and others involved in elections.
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 10 (2 g): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
b . Media advertisement
Comments: Local newspapers and radio.
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002
Verified: 2003/08/20
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Pita Vuki Chief returning Officer
Verified: 2003/08/20
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002
Verified: 2003/08/20
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
f . 21
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Tonga, Art. 64: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship b . Period of Residence d . Naturalization e . Other
Comments: Every Tongan upon attaining the age of 21 years shall, unless disqualified under clause 64 of the Constitution, within 3 months of attaining that age or within 3 months of his return to the Kingdom if not already registered or within 3 months of becoming a naturalised Tongan subject, apply to the Supervisor in Form 1 of the Schedule to be entered on the roll for the constituency in which he has been resident for the period of 3 months before his application for registration. An application in Form 1 shall include a recent photograph of the applicant. Upon the registration of any elector, the Supervisor shall issue a certificate in Form 2 of the Schedule.”.
Source: Constitution of Tonga, Art. 23, 64: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021);
Electoral Act (as amended in 2010), Art. 4 (3): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal Incarceration b . Previous Conviction d . Mental disability
Comments: In prison for 2 years or more.
Where out of prison (2 years or more) needs King's pardon.
Source: Consititution Section 23: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: Supervisor of Elections
Source: The Electoral Act 1989, Art. 4 (3) https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act Section 4: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act Section 4 and 5: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
f . Door-to-door registration campaign
Comments: All islands and villages are visited. Assistance is given by Town Offices.
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002
Verified: 2003/08/20
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Every Tongan upon attaining the age of 21 years shall, unless disqualified under clause 64 of the Constitution, within 3 months of attaining that age or within 3 months of his return to the Kingdom if not already registered or within 3 months of becoming a naturalised Tongan subject, apply to the Supervisor in Form 1 of the Schedule to be entered on the roll for the district in which he is then residing. Failure to register constitutes an offence liable to punishment by a fine not exceeding $50.
Source: Electoral Act (as amended in 2010), Art. 4 (3, 8): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify requirement) b . Deposit requirement (specify amount)
Comments: The legislation does not specify any registration requirements for political parties, in fact there are no official political parties. There are only specific qualification requirements for candidates.
Source: Electoral Act 1989 Section 9 (2): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: There are no political parties in Tonga. The Constitution and the electoral legislation does not prevent political parties, but none have developed. Generally independent candidates are grouped between reform or anti-reform caucuses.
Source: Campbell in Elections in Asia and the Pacific, p,820 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship f . Registration i . Minimum level of literacy j . Other
Comments: a) 21 years old;
f) Every candidate shall be nominated in writing in accordance with Form 4 of the Schedule signed by 50 persons who are qualified electors for that electoral district. The candidate shall assent to the nomination in writing by fixing his signature to the nomination paper.
i) Candidates must be able to read and write.
j) At the time of nomination the candidate shall deposit to the returning officer the sum of $200.
Source: Constitution of Tonga, Art.64, 65: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021);
Electoral Act (as amended in 2010), Art. 9 (2, 3): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence f . Registration j . Other
Comments: Representatives of the people shall be chosen by ballot and any person who is qualified to be an elector may be chosen as a representative, save that no person may be chosen against whom an order has been made in any Court in the Kingdom for the payment of a specific sum of money the whole or any part of which remains outstanding or if ordered to pay by instalments the whole or any part of such instalments remain outstanding on the day on which such person submits his nomination paper to the Returning Officer:
Provided that no person holding an office of emolument under the Crown shall
enter the Assembly except the Ministers, and the Governors.
Source: Constitution Article 65: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/08/26
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration c . Criminal record i . Unpaid debt
Comments: Unpaid debt by court order.
Source: Constitution Sections 23 and 65: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021);
Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
o . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/08/26
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Comments: Any person who is qualified to be an elector may be chosen as a representative provided that s/he adheres to the other specified requirements stated in the law and the constitution.
Source: Constitution of Tonga, Art. 64, 65: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: 50 signatures required. Deposit is $200 Tongan dollars, aprox 100 USD.
Source: Electoral Act Sections 9(2),(3) and (4): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/08/26
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/08/26
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
a . Free media access c . Free state transportation
Comments:
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002
Verified: 2003/08/26
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
f . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
b . Election campaign activities
Comments: free media access and state transportation.
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002
Verified: 2003/08/26
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: No candidate may spend, on any election campaign, more than the sum of $10,000. This includes: any donation made within 6 months of an election, either by a candidate or on his behalf, the cost of any entertaining (including food, drink or provision) paid by or on behalf of a candidate within 6 months of an election and travelling or transportation expenses paid by or on behalf of a candidate, to enable people to travel to a polling station.
Within 14 days after an election, every candidate shall deliver to the Supervisor a sworn statement of his election expenses. It is an offence for any candidate to spend on an election campaign more than the sum of $10,000 or to fail to deliver the statement.
Source: Electoral Act (1989) Art. 24: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Electoral Act (as amended in 2010), Art. 19: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002
Verified: 2003/08/26
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
e . Ceilings on party election expenses
Comments: No political parties but candidates cannot spend more than $10,000 Tongan for the campaign.
Source: Electoral Act (1989) Art. 24: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
b . Public disclosure of candidate expenditure e . Ceilings on candidate election expenses
Comments: Candidates cannot spend more than $10,000 Tongan for the campaign.
Source: Electoral Act (1989) Art. 24: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
d . Other
Comments: Supervisor of Elections
Source: Electoral Act (1989) Section 3(1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) e . Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote)
Comments: e.) The voter puts a tick beside the name(s) of candidate(s).
Source: Pacific Election Administration Compared: Andrew Ellis (International IDEA)and Alistair Legge (PIANZEA), 2005.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
s . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: The Officer in charge of each polling station shall after the time for voting has ceased count the votes on the ballot papers and then publicly announce at the polling station the number of votes received by each candidate. He shall then as soon as possible forward a certificate to that effect to the returning officer of the district with the ballot papers. The
returning officer shall as soon as possible ascertain the number of votes received throughout the electoral district by each of the candidates and shall declare the same in writing, together with the names of the candidates who have been elected. Such declaration shall be posted publicly on the post office of the electoral district and similar declarations shall be posted to the Supervisor by registered mail.
Source: Electoral Act 1989, Art. 16: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
d . Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters e . Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused) g . Single tallying as voters are being called out j . Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate l . Counted by hand o . Data fed into computer for calculation r . Observers and party agents are permitted to take their own copies of the results
Comments:
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002;
Electoral Act 1989, Art. 16: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
e . National level
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1989, Art. 16: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
c . Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: Constituency level.
Source: Campbell in Elections in Asia and the Pacific p, 815.;
Electoral Act Section 4(2) https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported b . By telephone c . By fax
Comments: Use of Telephone or Fax is only for remote islands all others are physically transported.
Source: Electoral Act Section 16(1); https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021);
Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002
Verified: 2021/09/15
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
a . No security measures
Comments:
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request
Comments: Any candidate may, within one week of the declaration of the poll, demand in writing addressed to the Supervisor of elections, that the votes be recounted. Any candidate demanding a recount shall pay, in advance, to the Supervisor, a fee of $1,000 which shall not be refunded unless: (a) as a result of the recount, a different candidate is elected; or
(b) the Supervisor, in announcing his decision on the recount, certifies that in his opinion the demand for a recount was reasonable.
Source: Electoral Act 1989, Art. 17: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Electoral Amendment Act 2010, Art. 15: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
b . An individual candidate
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1989, Section 17: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
a . National Election Management body
Comments: Supervisor of Elections
Source: Electoral Act 1989, Section 17: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
a . hours:
Comments: The most recent elections was 5 hours ie 11PM.
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME002
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
b . Government owned c . Privately owned
Comments: Tonga Broadcasting Commission - Radio Tonga(government owned); Letio Faka-Kalisiatane 93FM (privately-owned); Millenium Radio 2000 - A3V - FM 89.1(privately-owned); Radio Nuku'alofa 88.6FM (privately-owned)
Source: http://www.tonga-broadcasting.net/ (2021);
https://streema.com/radios/UCB_Pacific_A3R (2021);
https://streema.com/radios/Millenium_Radio_2000_A3V (2021);
https://streema.com/radios/Radio_Nukualofa (2021).
Verified: 2021/09/15
ME003
Question: Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
b . Government owned c . Privately owned
Comments: Oceania TV (privately owned)
Tonga Broadcasting Commission (government owned)
Source: http://www.oceaniatv.net/ (2021);
http://www.tonga-broadcasting.net/ (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
ME004
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
c . Privately owned
Comments: Kakalu 'o Tonga; Kele‘a (Privately owned); Talaki (Privately owned); Times of Tonga (privately owned); Matangi Tonga (privately owned)
Source: https://www.kelea.to/; https://talaki.to/sipoti/itemlist/tag/talaki%20online%20news; https://matangitonga.to/
Verified: 2021/09/15
ME005
Question: Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?
Answer:
d . No government newspaper: competition between two or more major private newspapers
Comments: Government interferes with news coverage and has revoked licenses in the past.
Source: https://freedomhouse.org/country/tonga/freedom-world/2021 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
ME009
Question: In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
Answer(s):
e . Print media
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
e . As agreed by special committee
Comments: For the purpose of promoting fairness and equal opportunities for all candidates and to prevent abuses, the Electoral Commission shall regulate the use of radio, television, newspaper, internet and other political notices, reports, appeals and advertising during the election period.
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 10 (2 k)
http://www.tongaelections.com/images/stories/TECdocuments/ENG/ElectoralCommissionAct/electoralcommissionact2010_1.pdf (2014)
Verified: 2014/11/21
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
d . No information available
Comments:
Source: Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 10 (2 k): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2010)
Verified: 2021/09/15
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
g . No information available
Comments: The law does not specifically refer to the blackout period during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released.
Source: Electoral Act (as amended in 2014): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments: There is no legal provision regarding paid advertising. However, the legislation specifies that no candidate may spend on any election campaign more than the sum of $ 10, 000. This includes donations, entertaining expenses as well as travelling and transportation expenses.
Additionally, the Prime Minister, with the consent of His Majesty in Council, may make regulations which are necessary to regulate election advertizing and electioneering.
Source: Electoral Act (as amended in 2014), Art. 24: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-act-1989-1 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: All people shall be free to send letters or petitions to the King or Legislative Assembly and to meet and consult concerning matters about which they think it right to petition the King or Legislative Assembly to pass or repeal enactments provided that they meet peaceably without arms and without disorder.
Source: Constitution of Tonga, Art. 8: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Neither the Constitution, nor the electoral legislation include provisions for any referenda.
Source: Constitution of Tonga: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Tonga: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: All people shall be free to send letters or petitions to the King or Legislative Assembly and to meet and consult concerning matters about which they think it right to petition the King or Legislative Assembly to pass or repeal enactments provided that they meet peaceably without arms and without disorder.
Source: Constitution of Tonga, Art. 8: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Tonga: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Tonga: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2014/11/21
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD009
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD010
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD100
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD101
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD102
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD105
Question: Who is responsible for checking the signatures?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD106
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a referendum?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD107
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD108
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD109
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD110
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD111
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD112
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD113
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD114
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD115
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD116
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD117
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD118
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD119
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD012
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD120
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD121
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD122
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD123
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD127
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign for a recall?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD034
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD035
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD037
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: N/A
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD041
Question: What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD042
Question: In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election? Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD051
Question: What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD076
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD077
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD080
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD081
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD083
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD086
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD087
Question: Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD088
Question: Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD092
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD093
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD095
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD097
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD098
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments: There are no provisions on referenda in the electoral law or in the constitution.
Source: Constitution of Tonga: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments: There are no provisions on referenda in the electoral law or in the constitution.
Source: Constitution of Tonga: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD132
Year of introducing Direct Democracy
Question: What year were the first Direct Democracy mechanisms introduced to the legal framework?
Answer:
h . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
DD133
Question: What year was the first referendum/initiative held?
Answer:
h . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/09/15
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: There is no formal code of conduct for election officials. Tonga is a member of PIANZEA and PIANZEA members voted on and accepted a code of conduct for elections officials at the 2002 PIANZEA Workshop.
Source: Pita Vuki Chief Returning Officer 2002 and Alistair Legge PIANZEA Secretary.
Verified: 2003/08/26
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections b . At any polling station in the same voting district
Comments: The Electoral Act seems to allow the elector to vote at the "nearest polling station for the district in which he is registered" but the practice seems to be specified polling stations - in effect this may be the same thing ie only one polling station per district.
Source: Electoral Amendment Act 2010, Art. 11 (1), 13: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2010/view (2021)
Electoral Amendment Act 2014, Section 6: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2014 (2021)
Electoral Regulation 2010, Art. 8: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-regulations-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
a . Outside the country voting is not permitted
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1989, Art. 11 (1), 13: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2010/view (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
a . No
Comments:
Source: Pacific Election Administration Compared: Andrew Ellis (International IDEA)and Alistair Legge (PIANZEA), 2005.
Verified: 2005/08/12
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Pacific Election Administration Compared: Andrew Ellis (International IDEA)and Alistair Legge (PIANZEA), 2005.
Verified: 2005/08/12
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Pacific Election Administration Compared: Andrew Ellis (International IDEA)and Alistair Legge (PIANZEA), 2005.
Verified: 2005/08/12
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: Electors strike out with "pen or pencil all names on the ballot paper other than those representatives he wishes to elect."
Source: Electoral Act (as amended in 2010 & 2014 ), Art. 12: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-amendment-act-2014 (2021)
Verified: 2021/09/15
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