Editor's Comment

By Pesi Fonua

Candidates for Tonga'’s March 17 parliamentary election, with few exceptions, have one campaign theme, that we hear over and again: "Tonga must change its political system".

But voters asking how can this be achieved? and, what are the changes? are like a fisherman holding on to his line at Vuna Wharf in anticipation that it could be a good catch.

In the Tongan election candidates run as individuals, to enter a parliament where the People's Representatives are a minority with nine seats in a 28 seat legislature. The new composition of the Tongan parliament this year will bring their number down to seven People's Representatives, when two of the nine are appointed as ministers.

Any notions expressed that one People's Representative might enter the House to change Tonga's political system of government, is undoubtedly a lost cause and a voice in the wilderness.

If unity is power, then the People's Representatives must be united and present themselves as representatives of a majority of the population. With a united voice, and a comprehensive plan for change, they might hope to win over the support of the Noble's Representatives and the Cabinet ministers.

Until a majority of the people are united in their wish for political change, and their Representatives to the Tongan parliament sing in harmony, any ideas of political change will remain as an election campaign - like a cheap thrill to catch a few votes, with not a hope in the world of advancing Tonga's political system.