A PETITION filed to government by 150 police officers who were unhappy with police reforms, was sent back to them by the Tongan Cabinet on March 25, because the petitioners did not follow the processes available to them under the law.

The Minister of Police Hon Dr Viliami Latu, yesterday in a joint press conference with Police Commissioner Chris Kelley, announced the decision by cabinet in returning the grievances to be resolved within the Tonga Police saying, "this is an internal matter to be worked out within the police.

"At the same time, the Government of Tonga and myself have full confidence and support the leadership of Commissioner Kelley," said the Minister.

At a meeting earlier in the morning, the Minister had informed police staff of the cabinet's decision.

"It was clear that when the petition was submitted to cabinet that these police did not follow the processes made available under the Police Act 2010, which sets out certain procedures for officers with grievances. They could either take it up with an Employment Committee, and if they can't settle it they can submit it to a Police Board; otherwise they may appeal in court," he said.

Procedures

Commissioner Kelley welcomed this decision by cabinet. He said he recognised police staff grievances. At the same time, he stressed that some of those grievances were intertwined with other issues that held no validity.

"I believe these grievances to be promoted by persons who had been subjected to disciplinary action or who are aggrieved by failing to understand merit based promotion decisions," he said in a lengthy press conference.

He said there is a process in place under the Tonga Police Act 2010 that deals with grievances.

"The power of the Commissioner and the old Commander is now linked to the Police Employment Committee, the Police Board and other checks and balances to ensure the opportunity of misuse is greatly reduced."

He said it was important now for the Minister and himself to instigate a place for staff to come forward as individuals or groups and to put the grievances to the appropriate forum.

"Whether it is through me or the deputy commander or referral to the police board to deal with, which I am not a member of," he said.

Commissioner Kelley also told police staff that over the last two years the Tonga Police had shown leadership in their operation, development and community policing.

"We must accept transparency, accountability and public scrutiny because they are the cornerstone of public confidence in our organization," he said.

He urged all staff member to ensure they have a copy of the Police Act 2010 and read it carefully and makes submission that are relevant.

"I am willing to meet any officer in the petition to explain the decision or process used when they feel aggrieved. I am willing to explain issues or questions that need clarification," he said.

Second petition

Meanwhile, Commissioner Kelley said he was aware of another document referred to as a second petition. He had a copy of the unsigned document addressed to the Minister Police from an officer that is currently under investigation.

"One issue was the allegation I misused a police vehicle by ordering the transport section to provide my daughter with a vehicle for a week in Tonga. The facts of the matter I have a contract vehicle from New Zealand as part of my employment package. That vehicle does not belong to Tonga Police or the Government of Tonga nor do I use petrol from Tonga Police to run it. My contract allows for personal use of the vehicle by immediate family members.

"That allegation is malicious and without foundation."

He said that a second allegation was made that two vehicle crashes involving police officers went uninvestigated.

"Both cases were investigated and both cases had lawful authority to have police vehicle and committed no offence.

"These two simple allegations illustrate how distorted the statements are in documents provided," said Commissioner Kelley.