On this International Day of Democracy, Parliamentarians for Global Action (PGA) notes with great sadness the passing of Tongan Prime Minister 'Akilisi Pohiva, former PGA member and lifelong pro-democracy advocate. A historic figure, Pohiva served as the first prime minister of the South Pacific island nation elected by parliament rather than appointed by the monarch.

Pohiva spent more than three decades in political office after he was first elected to Tonga's parliament in 1987. As a champion for democracy, Pohiva’s political career was marked by struggles against the Tongan monarchy. He was charged with sedition in wake of pro-democracy riots in the capital Nuku’alofa in 2006. In addition, Pohiva was outspoken about climate change and called for world leaders to help island nations, some of which are battling rising sea levels.

In 2013, PGA honored Hon. Pohiva with its Defender of Democracy Award, recognizing his exceptional commitment and contribution to promoting democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. In 2015, Prime Minister Pohiva hosted PGA’s highly successful Pacific Regional Workshop on the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) in Tonga, followed by a visit to PGA’s New York Office.

His life and legacy as a democracy champion exemplify PGA’s vision, namely “to contribute to the creation of a rules-based international order for a more equitable, safe and democratic world. PGA remains committed to carrying his work forward by supporting our Tongan members--and parliamentarians throughout the Pacific Region-- in their fight to end impunity, promote peace, inclusion, and protect our oceans.