Results for 16 November 2006

I am less confident that the proposal set forth by Mr Christopher Harder will resolve anything in the current as well as the future political situation of Tonga. To be sure, I do believe in apologizing and forgiveness in response. However, to think that an apology from all parties involved in the heinous crimes of 16/11 and a pardon from the King of Tonga will rectify the current political situation in Tonga is unavoidably laughable. -Rev Dr Ma'afu Palu

I have observed great turmoil and frustration about the land as families turn against each other and the country as a whole is further torn apart by pro-democracy and pro-monarchy supporters being unable to reconcile their differences. Let there be no doubt, many in Tonga bear some responsibility for what happened on 16 November 2006 and the ongoing legal events that continue to tie up the legal process and stop the country from progressing. In no particular order these persons have responsibility and they do know who they are. - Christopher Harder

Our leaders in government (which includes Peoples Representatives who are lawmakers) are held to a higher standard of conduct than Mr. Ordinary Citizen. Leaders are in responsible positions, and they can easily use their authority unjustly. It is the same in Tonga as it is in America. -Sione A. Mokofisi

The Minister of Finance said that 2007 is a very difficult year because on November 16 about 20% of Tonga's GDP was destroyed in one day and it was difficult to establish the real state of the economy because they have not been able to value all that was lost during 16/11. PR Samiu Vaipulu expressed his concern that it would take many generations to repay government loans.

Police Magistrate, Latu Mohenoa this morning ordered Sitiveni Tafolo (52) to appear at the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court for trial on various charges relating to the riots of November 16, 2006.

You got it right Mr. Sanft, the Tonga's budget is pretty much dry. What you and your Demo friends do not seems to see is that regardless of the form of government you insisted of installing in Tonga, it will have to deal with a budget that is pretty much dry. I am not too sure because you and your friends have never been definitive on the type of system you insist on Tonga. But the early indication your Demo system is not going to solve Tonga's problem either. As a matter of fact, the Demo System created Tonga's current problem by forcing the 60%, 70%, and 80% pay raise. And then apply the last straw to break the camel's back when turn around and burn down the businesses that were going to finance this pay raise. -Sione Lousiale Kava

Police Magistrate Salesi Mafi today, March 20 ordered Talifolau Letisi (33) to appear at the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court for trial on charges relating to the destruction of key Government offices and business premises during the Nuku'alofa riots on November 16, 2006.

The public has this week been moving through the ghost town of central Nuku'alofa after most of the restrictions on the flow of traffic into the CBD were lifted on Monday January 22. Photos by Linny Folau

As Mr. Fifita describes there are many significant past achievements that have been accomplished by Queen Salote III and King Taufa'’ahau Tupou IV. Even King George Tupou V has done much to improve Tonga'’s telecommunication infrastructure. The King has a very loyal following. Democratic leaders around the world would give their right arms to have loyal subjects who can'’t even pay their water bills, get down on their hands and knees to crawl up to them with an envelope full of money. - Joe Smith