Highlights from Tonga's newspapers, June 30-July 10, 2008. An English translation summary by Tevita Fonua.

The Taimi on July 7 in Auckland reports that at a meeting of the association of Pacific journalists in New Zealand, PIMA, fear was expressed that a National Party victory in the coming New Zealand election could result in the closure of problem-riddled Pacific Radio.

The Kele'a on July 9 reports that the New Zealand Tongan Society for Political Reform in Tonga (NZTSRT) had presented a check for $500 to their communication officer after he returned from farewelling his late father in Tonga. It reports that although a political organization, the NZTSRT's over-arching interests encompassed different fields and included matters that weighed on individual members.

The Talaki on July 9 reports that the Customs Department is to be downsized, but with a surprising twist, reporting that five of their senior most officials immediately below the Chief Collector of Customs have been recommended for dismissal.

The Taimi on July 10 reports that Fraser Mataitonga, a sniper with the British Special Forces, is holidaying in Tonga after serving in Iraq for six months. An ex-student of Tonga High School, Fraser had studied at the University of the South Pacific and the University of Auckland, and played rugby in New Zealand and the United Kingdom before enlisting in the British Army.

The Kalonikali on July 10 reports that the Chinese government will fund a $7 million upgrade of roads in Tongatapu. Ambassador Hu Yeshun also donated $2,000 to a troupe of performers from the Teachers' Training College, who will represent Tonga at the Pacific Festival of Arts.

June 30- July 3, 2008

The Taimi on June 30 reports that parliamentarian 'Akilisi Pohiva had asked the House as to why wasn't a soldier assigned for his protection. 'Akilisi had in the past ridiculed the Tonga Defence Services as a waste of money and repeatedly called for its dissolution.

According to the Taimi, Anglican Bishop Jabez Bryce will crown King George Tupou V. It is already criticized by two Tongan academics, Professor Futa Helu and Dr. Malakai Koloamatangi.

The Talaki on July 2 reports that Queen Salote College is the only school that will perform dances at the coronation.

The Taimi on July 3 quotes Prime Minister Dr Feleti Sevele as saying that the 'Atalanga estate in Auckland, New Zealand, belongs to the King, as it was bought by the late Queen Salote Tupou III with her own money.