In October 2006 he was appointed to the Cabinet as Minister for Labour, Commerce and Industries, under Prime Minister Feleti Sevele.[1]
He stood in the 2010 election in the seat of Vavaʻu 14 and was successful. New Prime Minister Lord Tuʻivakanō retained him in Cabinet as Minister for Labour, Commerce and Industries.[2] On September 1, 2011, he was reshuffled to the Ministry for Police, Prisons and Fire Services.[3] On May 1, 2012, at his own request, he was reshuffled to the position of Minister of Finance.[4][5][6][7]
He developed a reputation as a financial conservative who didn't want to see Tonga overwhelmed by debt repayments.[8] He was also the lead Spokesperson for Pacific ACP States' negotiations with the European Union on a comprehensive Economic partnership agreement.[9]
On 9 January 2014, ʻAkolo was fired from his position as Minister for Finance after publicly criticizing aspects of the budget.[8] He was replaced by ʻAisake Eke.[10]