The Prime Minister’s Office is responsible for providing leadership and coordination across the whole of government to support national planning and policy-making. Established under the Constitution and Government Act, the office plays a critical role in providing strategic direction and oversight to both the government and public service, which are vital for effective governance and decision-making.

The Office’s work aligns with the Tonga Strategic Development Framework II (TSDF II) by providing leadership crucial for monitoring and evaluating the nation’s progress toward economic growth, infrastructure development, and social goals. Through its oversight of Cabinet, national planning, policy development, digital transformation, and local governance, the Office contributes directly to the development of the Tongan economy by coordinating across sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, and regional cooperation.

Strong central governance is especially important for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Tonga. Given the unique challenges SIDS face, such as vulnerability to natural disasters, limited resources, and reliance on foreign aid and investment, effective coordination enables the government to make evidence-based decisions. This coordination also ensures Tonga can effectively engage in regional cooperation, attract foreign investment, and access international aid programs.

The Prime Minister’s Office manages access to Cabinet decisions and documents through the Cabinet & Policy Department. While certain Cabinet documents are confidential by nature, public access to relevant government decisions is provided through established channels. The Cabinet & Policy Department maintains comprehensive records of Cabinet decisions and ensures proper communication of directives to relevant ministries and departments.

The Digital Transformation Department provides access to government digital services through:

• The Secure Government Network (SGN)
• Online government forms and services
• Digital payment platforms
• Support for ministries transitioning to digital systems

Visit the Digital Transformation Department website for more information and to access available online government services.

The Prime Minister’s Office website serves as a comprehensive platform for accessing government information, including:

• Government priorities and initiatives
• National development plans
• Policy documents
• Digital services
• Community development resources

Users can search for information by department or service area. For specific inquiries, contact the relevant department through the contact information provided on the website.

The PMO maintains offices in outer islands through Governors and Government Representatives to ensure service delivery across Tonga. Each office provides:

• Local government coordination
• Community development support
• Government representation
• Land administration services
• Election administration

You will soon be able to submit requests for information to the Prime Minister’s Office through the Citizen Portal, including formal inquiries, information requests, and service applications. This system allows users to submit trackable requests for information or services not readily available through our website or document library.

Types of requests that can be submitted include:

• Policy Information
• Community Development Projects or Inquiries
• Digital Services Implementation
• Official visits and events

All requests must include proper identification and contact information. Some information may be restricted due to official secrets or privacy requirements. Complex requests may require additional processing time. Certain requests may require approval from the Chief Secretary and Secretary to Cabinet.

• Constitution – The supreme law of Tonga establishing the framework for governance, including the role of the Prime Minister as head of government
• Government Act – Defines the structure, functions, and responsibilities of the Government of Tonga
• Legislative Assembly Act – Establishes the procedures and operations of Tonga’s parliament and its relationship with the executive branch
• Official Secrets Act – Protects sensitive government information and establishes protocols for handling classified materials
• District & Town Officers Act – Outlines the appointment, duties, and responsibilities of District and Town Officers in local governance
• Emergency Powers Act – Provides the legal framework for government response during states of emergency and natural disasters
• Evacuation Act – Establishes procedures and authorities for evacuating citizens during emergencies or disasters
• Fonos Act – Governs the conduct of traditional community meetings and local governance structures
• Public Holidays Act – Establishes official public holidays and empowers the Prime Minister to declare special holidays
• Diplomatic Relations Act – Governs Tonga’s diplomatic relationships and international engagements
• Public Service Act 2010 – Establishes the framework for public service employment, conduct, and management
• Public Finance Management Act 2002 – Provides for the control and management of public money, assets, and liabilities
• Public Audit Act 2007 – Establishes the framework for auditing government accounts and ensuring financial accountability