Highlights from Tonga's newspapers, November 5-9, 2007. An English translation summary by Tevita Fonua.

The Taimi on November 5 alleges that the president of the Tokaikolo Church Rev. Dr. Liufau Saulala had bought the television station TV OBN in June 2006, from its previous owner Christopher Racine, and that an unidentified high ranking official from the church was concerned about the source of the funding for the purchase. The church's president, secretary and treasurer were unavailable to comment on the matter.

The Taimi headlines a statement by the Prime Minister Dr Feleti Sevele who announced that businesses owned by his wife and daughter will not borrow from the funds made available from a loan of $118 million from the Chinese government.

A nobleman, using the Veikune title, is taking the government to court reports the Kele'a on November 7. He is claiming allowances and other rights accrued to him as a landed nobleman, which were terminated by the government, after his conviction on charges of bribery and the illegal import of spirits. He told the Kele'a that the Ministry of Justice had used the Land Act to strip him of his title and his membership in the Legislative Assembly, and that the Act is inconsistent with the Constitution.

The Kalonikali on November 8 reports that five People's Representatives stayed outdoors during the King's address at the closing of the Legislative Assembly. 'Akilisi Pohiva said they were protesting their rejection by the King and also the abrupt closure of the House.

The Taimi on November 8 quoted the president of the Tonga Law Society Laki Niu, in a radio interview, as saying that jury trials are no longer appropriate for Tonga and should be dropped. It follows the acquittal by a jury, of six defendants charged with crimes relating to the destruction last November.

According to the Talaki on November 7, Catholic Coadjutor Bishop Soane Patita Mafi has suspended a priest and a deacon.