Reports from Tonga's newspapers, November 26-27, 2008. An English translation summary by Tevita Fonua.

The Talaki on November 26 reports that the Cabinet's appointee to the Constitution and Electoral Commission, former Chief Justice Frederick Gordon Ward, had resigned in 2004 when his relationship with the government cooled over the government's unconstitutional ordinances designed to stymie the media.

The Taimi on November 26 reports that with change only one year away and the expectation that many of the People's Representatives will become ministers and in government, questions have been raised concerning their suitability. Prince Tu'ipelehake proposes the appointment of apprentice ministers who will sit with and observe the current ministers doing their duties.

Vava'u Airlines Ltd., a joint venture between Canadian Sandy Best and Vava'u People's Representative 'Etuate Lavulavu, will fly the Nadi-Vava'u route.

The Ministry of Agriculture will provide up to two sheep free of charge to those who can build a pen with pasture and shelter for the animals; but you are not allowed to eat them until your flock numbers five. Agricultural officers will check on the sheep.

The Kalonikali on November 27 reports that People's Reprsentative Clive Edwards wants New Zealand and Australia to express to the Tongan government their displeasure at the extension of emergency powers.

According to the Kele'a on November 26, the Prime Minister and his ministers are going to get a 165% pay rise in addition to their overtime allowances from parliament, travel allowances, housing allowances, entertainment allowances, free fixed line telephone, free cell phone, free internet access, a vehicle plus driver, generous pensions and meeting fees. The Kele'a asserts that clearly the longer change is delayed, the more benefits and pensions they will get.

Dr. Halapua remarked that the King has opened the door for the people to be involved in implementing change; but while the door is open, arguments are raging over who has the right to go in.