15 Sep 2019 | 07:21 AM UTC
New Zealand: Memorial service for Tongan Prime Minister 'Akilisi Pōhiva in Auckland September 15
Official memorial service to be held for Tongan Prime Minister 'Akilisi Pōhiva in Auckland on September 15; heightened security presence expected
Event
An official memorial service is due to be held in Auckland on Sunday, September 15, for Tongan Prime Minister 'Akilisi Pōhiva who died in the city on Thursday, September 12, after being diagnosed with pneumonia. The service is due to take place in the evening (local time) at Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga in Mangere. Several important dignitaries are expected to attend the event, including New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
A heightened security presence is expected in the vicinity of the service. Crowded conditions, and transport disruptions are also likely in Auckland during the memorial event.
Context
'Akilisi Pōhiva served as Prime Minister of Tonga from 2014 until his death in 2019.
Advice
Individuals in Auckland are advised to respect local customs, refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media, anticipate government and business disruptions, heightened security measures, and transportation disruptions near the memorial event, and avoid public gatherings as a precaution.
