Tomasi Puapua facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Tomasi Puapua
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|---|---|
| 6th Governor-General of Tuvalu | |
| In office 26 June 1998 – 9 September 2003 |
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| Monarch | Elizabeth II |
| Prime Minister | Bikenibeu Paeniu Ionatana Ionatana Lagitupu Tuilimu (acting) Faimalaga Luka Koloa Talake Saufatu Sopoanga |
| Preceded by | Tulaga Manuella |
| Succeeded by | Faimalaga Luka |
| 2nd Prime Minister of Tuvalu | |
| In office 8 September 1981 – 16 October 1989 |
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| Monarch | Elizabeth II |
| Governor-General | Fiatau Penitala Teo Tupua Leupena |
| Preceded by | Toaripi Lauti |
| Succeeded by | Bikenibeu Paeniu |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 10 September 1938 Nanumanga, Gilbert and Ellice Islands |
Sir Tomasi Puapua (born on September 10, 1938) is an important political leader from Tuvalu. He represented the island of Vaitupu in the country's parliament. Before becoming a politician, he studied medicine at the Fiji School of Medicine and the Otago University Medical School. He is married to Riana Puapua.
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Leading Tuvalu as Prime Minister
Tomasi Puapua served as the second Prime Minister of Tuvalu. He held this important role from September 8, 1981, to October 16, 1989. In Tuvalu, leaders often change, but he served for a long time. During his time as Prime Minister, he also worked as the foreign minister.
First Election After Independence
The first national election in Tuvalu after it became independent was held on September 8, 1981. Many people wanted to become leaders. There were 26 candidates, all hoping to win one of the 12 seats in the parliament. Tomasi Puapua was chosen as Prime Minister. He had more support than the previous Prime Minister, Toaripi Lauti.
Re-election and New Leaders
Tomasi Puapua was re-elected in the next general election. This election took place on September 12, 1985. He continued to be the Prime Minister after this victory.
The next election was held on March 26, 1989. After this election, the members of parliament chose Bikenibeu Paeniu as the new Prime Minister.
Another election happened on November 25, 1993. This time, the parliament members were split. They could not decide between the current Prime Minister, Bikenibeu Paeniu, and Tomasi Puapua. Because of this tie, the Governor-General had to dissolve, or close, the parliament. A new election was then held on November 25, 1993. After this new election, Kamuta Latasi was chosen as Prime Minister on December 10, 1993.
Serving as Speaker of Parliament
From 1993 to 1998, Tomasi Puapua was elected as the Speaker of the Parliament of Tuvalu. The Speaker is like the referee in a debate. They make sure that discussions in parliament follow the rules. This happened during the government led by Kamuta Latasi.
Representing the Queen as Governor-General
After many years in top government jobs, Puapua took on a new role. He became the Governor-General of Tuvalu from 1998 to 2003. In this role, he was the representative of Elizabeth II, who was the Queen of Tuvalu. The Governor-General has a very high official position. However, this role is more about ceremonies and representing the Queen, rather than leading the government day-to-day.
Special Awards and Honors
Tomasi Puapua has received several special awards from the Commonwealth. These awards recognize his important work.
Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire
In 1998, he was given the title of Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE). This honor was for his great work in medicine, politics, and helping the community.
Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George
In 2002, he received an even higher honor. He was appointed to Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George (GCMG). This is a very important award.
See also
- In Spanish: Tomasi Puapua para niños
