Highlights from Tonga's newspapers, September 3-4, 2008. An English translation summary by Tevita Fonua.

The Talaki on September 3 reports that Tonga's squash exports to Japan have dwindled from 23,000 tons to only 2,500 tons this year, and that Tonga and her growers have established quite a record in failing to fulfil their projected tonnage of squash for export, which is annoying to Japan.

The Taimi on September 3 questions the choice of Dr. Sitiveni Halapua for the Constitutional Commission, calling it an appointment by the People's Representatives, although it is not yet official. Dr. Halapua had assumed the chairmanship of the Tu'ipelehake's Committee following the prince's untimely death and compiled its report. His entry in to the committee had rested on his credential as a mediator. According to the Taimi, after tabling the report, Dr. Halapua then mounted what was perceived to be a campaign against the government, calling for the Prime Minister to resign; much to the delight of the Demos. The Taimi claims that Dr Halapua did not furnish a credible reason for his action and acuses him of partisanship.

A scholarship club from the village of Holonga in Vava'u has, with finance from members in New Zealand, built a computer centre for their students. The club had earlier bought a school bus.

The Kele'a on September 3 reports that Noble Ma'afu had announced twice that nobles support democratic change.



The Kalonikali on September 4 reports that 'Api-Tonga, a piece of land opposite the University of the South Pacific in Suva, will be dedicated on September 21. Bought at a cost of FJD$470,000, it will serve as a refuge for all Tongans in Suva.