The main power brokers in Tongan politics are the King, the noble establishment and the landowners. King Tupou IV effectively heads his government, frequently exercising kingly powers. The legislative assembly defers to his judgement and the King has taken the initiative in instigating several development projects. These initiatives, including recent talks on possible Libyan investment in oil exploration, are undertaken without reference to the government.
Younger Westernized Tongans are now increasingly questioning the role of the monarchy. When the current King dies, calls for change are likely to accelerate.
