Editor,

IS'NT it time for qualified Tongan judges to lead the Kingdom's highest court? (Loss of judges . . . 21 Sep 2010).

Inquiring mind #1 asking: "Why not?"

The usual excuse: "Tongan judges lack experience."

Inquiring mind #2: "How can one gain experience if not given the opportunity?"

The usual excuse: "Papalangi candidates are more qualified."

Inquiring mind #3: "How did they get the opportunity?"

The usual excuse: "They have worked in many capacities of jurisprudence for many years."

Inquiring mind #4: "Why don't Tongan judges get the opportunity?"

New excuse: "They need a Papalangi name like Ford, Steward, or Smith."

Inquiring mind #5: "Oh, give me a break; that's ridiculous."

The usual excuse: "Here, I'll break your face with this coconut."

The Papalangi "Halo" Effect

It's the 21st century, folks. Even in Tonga judges cannot get hired, but there is a shortage of Supreme Court judges. It's been 135 years since modern Tonga was introduced to the world of politics, business, religion, and education.

Haven't we gotten just one Tongan judge qualified after 135 years? Let's see . . . we have Tongans with masters and doctorate degrees in all subjects including law, Juris Doctor (JD). But we do not have anyone with the experience, which is years of experience on the bench.

It is time to break the mold: We should have "Qualified Tongans" who must be elevated to the highest judgeship, or be trained immediately. We must eliminate the flawed idea that only Papalangis are capable of being smart, intellectual, honest, and trustworthy.

There are honest and trustworthy Tongan judges who are just as capable as Papalangi judges. The longer we keep our lot in an inferior status, the longer we will deny ourselves the opportunities to excel.

Sione Akemeihakau Mokofisi