Dear Editor,

It was disheartening to learn that someone has apparantly given the above residence to Latufuipeka. One is led to believe that the Prince Regent Tupouto'a made this announcement.

This beautiful residence ought to be designated as the official residence of the Prime Minister of Tonga. As the country moves towards a democratically elected government and PM, there is a real need for a proper and permanent prime ministerial residence.

What can be more fitting than the above residence for such a purpose ? Everything about the residence is well in keeping with the requirements of the office of the PM. It is obviously still a fully functional diplomatic residence complete with the latest office equipment to allow for a smooth transition to its new use and the moving in of the new tenant. It has plenty of room, for residential and official entertainment, both internally and in the gardens and ground. It is well located in close proximity to the parliament and various offices and indeed to the Palace.

The residence is to be maintained by the government and to be occupied by the PM for the term of his/her commission.

It will be enlightening to learn who legally owns the land and residence. Does it belong to the state or to the Prince Regent or someone else.

Kind Regards.

Sione Tapani Mangisi.

manley [at] bigpond [dot] com