The preliminary hearing of the five People's Representatives who have been charged in relation to the riots of November 16, 2006 began yesterday, May 3, at the Nuku'alofa Magistrate's Court.

'Akilisi Pohiva, 'Isileli Pulu, William Clive Edwards, 'Uliti Uata and Lepolo Taunisila who are charged with similar counts of sedition and unlawful assembly appeared at the Nuku'alofa Magistrate's Court for the start of their preliminary inquiry.

But the hearing was adjourned to this afternoon, May 4, into closed Chambers for both parties, where it was concluded that the hearing would continue on May 14.

During the hearing yesterday, there was a debate from both sides on whether the hearing of all five People's Representatives should be held together or separately.

The Crown Prosecutor initially submitted for one hearing for all five together, while the defence side preferred that their hearings be held separately, because although their charges may be similar, they related to different incidences.

The charges against the accused will be confirmed later.