Both Tonga's former Minister of Transport Paul Karalus and the Prime Minister Hon. Dr Feleti Sevele and other high ranking government officials are set to give evidence this month at the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the sinking of the Ashika.

The former Minister of Transport Paul Karalus has been confirmed to give evidence next week beginning on Friday, February 12 and to continue on Monday February 15.

The Prime Minister Hon Dr Feleti Sevele is set for Monday February 22.

Counsel Assisting the Commission Manuel Varitimos advised the commission that the Prime Minister's counsel had been asked that the PM address in his affidavit issues relating to Commander Lupeti Vi, the Ports Authority and the Pulupaki.

The inquiry, which has been consistently sitting since January 12 this year, is adjourned for this week because of another meeting at the Fa'onelua Convention Centre.

The inquiry resumes on Monday, February 8.

Varitmos said due to Lord Dalgety's sickness last week the inquiry will resume next week with evidence from the Transport officials including Transport Secretary 'Eleni Mone, followed by SCP Managing Director John Jonesse and Lord Dalgety QC.

Others from the Finance Department, the CEO of the Ministry of Public Enterprises; the Chief Secretary and Secretary to Cabinet; and the Minister of Public Enterprise Hon 'Afu'alo Matoto would also give evidence this month.