TONGA: Tongan MP says court case outcome could undermine King's integrity

The leading pro-democracy MP in Tonga, 'Akilisi Pohiva, says legal action challenging constitutional amendments is likely to undermine the integrity of the king and the Tongan government

Pacific Media Watch
Thursday, March 18, 2004

AUCKLAND (RNZI Online/Pacific Media Watch): The leading pro-democracy MP in Tonga, 'Akilisi Pohiva, says legal action challenging constitutional amendments is likely to undermine the integrity of the king and the Tongan government.

Last year, the government amended the constitution to pave the way for legislation which has been criticised for curbing freedom of speech [and a free media].

Pohiva, [who published Kele'a newsletter], Taimi 'o Tonga publisher Kalafi Moala, and others are seeking a judicial review of the changes.

He expects the writ will be considered next week at the same time as Auckland mechanic Alani Taioni appears in court to answer a charge of distributing an illegal publication in Tonga.

Pohiva says he expects to win and if that happens it will have big ramifications for the Tongan government.

"If we win this case itıs going to be a real disaster to the Tongan government, especially the king because he already signed for the legislation for the amendments to the constitution ... Itıs going to be a big impact on the Tongans, not only that but on the integrity of His Majesty."

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Date Posted: 3/18/2004