A Tongan union leader who is standing in the November 25th election says family and community links will be the most telling feature of the poll.
Mele Amanaki, who heads the Public Servants Association and leads the Labour Party, is standing in Tongatapu Number 2, a seat in the heart of Nuku'alofa.
She is one of nine candidates, who include former Justice Minister, Alisi Taumoepeau, Auckland lawyer Sione Fonua and well known local businessman, Semisi Sika.
This election is a departure from previous polls in that electorates are much smaller, village-based, seats and Ms Amanaki says family connections are important but community contribution is vital.
"What will exceed the other candidates will be what they have done in the community. What have you done in the community to capture the others because their would be those who are not even related at all to the candidates. So those are the voters who will determine the election."
Mele Amanaki
