'Akilisi, the People's favourite

Give the People's Ministers a fair chance - Kisione Manu:
The latest political manoeuvre in Tonga consequently ushered in two ministers who were voted into Parliament by the people. The idea of “People’s Ministers” as you have indicated in your editorial seems to be no longer a concept but another deception made by the Government to lessen the din of discontent from the People’s bench.
However, I believe it is premature to make any comment on whether the concept of “People’s Ministers” still applies or not and we need to give these two fine individuals a fair chance to deliver the promises they have advocated over the years. I must say that the notion of deception is still very much at present in this deal but it all comes down to the degree of loyalty they will show towards the people.
I have faith in these two Ministers and we hope they will learn from the past of those who said one thing and yet their actions contradicted what they were saying. Unlike the other ministers whom the King chose; they on the other hand bear the faith of the people who initially voted them into Parliament and the trust of the Crown. We may be quick to think that being a Minister, their allegiance to the people are overwhelmed by their Ministerial posts and we have every reason to be sceptical because the history of some who advocated the same principles became fervent supporters of the Government ever since they were chosen by the King to be Ministers.
I think the new Ministers have learnt from these past experiences and with the support of the people’s representatives they will endeavour to make that concept of “People’s Ministers” become a reality. But in saying all that, only the future will tell. - Kisione Manu, Australia.