A prominent Tongan academic is returning to politics and contesting next month's election in the hope he can help people better understand the country's transition to democracy.
Sitiveni Halapua, who has taught at the East West Centre in Honolulu and been an advisor to a number of Pacific governments, was elected an MP in 2010 but chose not to stand in 2014.
The new election, a year earlier than scheduled, comes after the sudden dissolution of parliament and the effective sacking of the government led by Dr Halapua's former colleague, 'Akilisi Pohiva.
Don Wiseman asked Dr Halapua why he is standing again.
Listen
Tonga MP Sitiveni Halapua Photo: Supplied