Lepolo Mahe Taunisila

Lepolo Mahe Taunisila is a distinguished figure in Tongan politics and social justice, best known as the fourth woman ever elected to Tonga’s Parliament – achieving this in the 2005 by‑election representing the Niuas 

Prior to her political career, she served for over two decades in education – including teaching roles and work at the Education Office, with her last post at Niua High School (2000–2005) where she taught alongside her husband

Driven by her commitment to human rights and social justice, Lepolo focused on elevating “closed‑door” issues – such as domestic violence and rape – bringing them into national dialogue in Parliament. Her political aspirations were backed by strong community support and her family’s encouragement, which informed her vision of empowering women in governance and challenging cultural norms that limited women’s roles to the home