Tonga Police 2024 Commissioned Officers Conference

Tonga Police held its annual Commissioned Officers Conference at Seabreeze, Bay of Manumataongo with the theme, "Leadership and Stewardship in Modern Policing." Commissioned officers from all the Police Districts in the Kingdom of Tonga, civilian equivalents, donor partners and invited speakers attended this event. Commissioner of Police, Shane McLennan emphasised the importance of embracing changes and implementing modern policing. He stated, "Technology is evolving. We need to embrace the changes in technology and the changes around us, and by doing that, we change our mindset." Changes in technology are dynamic, and by adopting a mindset open to these changes is important as they continue to reshape the way policing works.

The three-day conference included presentations from District Commanders on strategies, achievements and challenges within their districts. They passionately spoke on the daily challenges they face living on an island and proposed ways forward in tackling those challenges. Some recommended realistic approaches to policing taking into consideration their geographical location and the lifestyle of the people they police.  The conference was reminded of the importance of strategic planning and budget, performance development agreements, leadership and professionalism in the workplace.

Mr James Lutui, Director of Public Prosecutions in his presentation highlighted areas for improvement in policing and stressed the importance of a more thorough and systematic approach to policing. Great insights were shared from Commissioner Mr Chris LaHatte of the Anti-Corruption Commission.  Valuable perspectives were also contributed by Police Advisors from the Tonga Australia Policing Partnership (TAPP) and the Tonga New Zealand Police Programme (TNZPP).

Shared thoughts amongst the conference delegates were that for Tonga Police to move forward and everyone is encouraged to embrace the changes to be able to influence their teams.  A commissioned officer shared a quote that “We cannot fight modern war with weapons of the past”.  Change starts with everyone as times are moving, we must conquer the rise of technology today by changing the way we police.

The conference brought together delegates to celebrate their achievements and provided a platform of unity and connection. One shared, "As my first conference, I appreciate my fellow colleagues and the tremendous work they do in policing. Each presentation was inspiring and uplifting.” Another said, "I am leaving this conference with confidence knowing that I have so much I can to encourage modern strategies in our district."

In addition to professional development, the conference was the perfect opportunity for everyone to come together, uplift one another and share an appreciation for the work they do.

An all white Christmas dinner concluded the conference to mark its successful completion.

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