Editor,

After reading your editorial about "Tonga's fight for survival overwhelms efforts for reform (22-03-2006)" may seem to be the case, as day to day needs are the current and constant struggle, but it may have political undertones as well.

However, the overall solution to Tonga's economic problems is desperately dependent upon reform itself. As many may deny it, or the faint of heart may not admit it - Tonga's reform may be its only hope for economic recovery (and future). It is our human nature to focus on our immediate needs, but these needs may distract us, or may contradict our ultimate objectives. Distraction, as evil as it can be, can be a wonderful thing if it's well understood. Tonga's slow economic recovery problems are unfortunately related to the blemished perception of her politics. And that image as an outsider looking in is quite unstable. Argue as you may that it is otherwise, but the players for democracy are too busy fighting to save their asses from jail. Word-up!, if there are any worthy democracy playas in Tonga, holla!, your team needs you now. And the royals, they seem to be doing whatever it is they keep doing. I'm wondering now whether 'no news is good news' any longer.

Everyone seems to think the answers to Tonga's economic problems will be resolved by the monetary contributions from other nations. While this may be partly true, so far that monetary influx is mere pittance to the funds needed to get the economy back on track. And the promised subsidy funds by the government - subsidized from/with what? I have no idea what the government budget is now, but it's got to be a well quickly drying up. Who / what the hell are these crackers thinking?

To attract the big nation contributors and corporate deep-pocket investors toward Tonga, reform is a must (on many levels), and its non-activity today will only pro-long the recovery process. As desperate Tonga's image is today, it could also serve in her favor, if the steps toward reform and revitalization of the economy are well designed, informed, presented, Accepted by its people, and implemented. Tonga needs to sell itself, to be in positive position to attract 'the ballers' (Big Money in Cali-talk) of our world.

Sound easy? Actually its implementation will require further sacrifice from Tonga's citizens, and it may include the layoffs and monetary cutbacks you presented in your article. Unfortunately, the road to recovery on any balance sheet be it corporate or national budget must show 'arguable' profit and benefit for the future.

The person who has the most influence in all this is the King. If he chooses to take his time or do nothing it is his right, but be clear it is a right that is not divine. But if he chooses to act today, reform and relinquish some of his powers of rule, and implement change - the biggest change to his nation in recent history, than the road to recovery for Tonga may be before us all.

Mr. Editor and readers, I wish you well.

Recovery rowers needed,

Alipate Sanft

Executive Vice President, Mango Financial