Kelley responds to calls to end tenure

By Tevita Motulalo

Commissioner of Tonga Police Chris Kelley

TONGA’S Commissioner of Police, New Zealander Christopher Kelley has made a public response to the allegations of a petition submitted to Cabinet.

“I am aware of the ‘petition’ document…I have not seen a photocopy of the original document,” said Kelley.

“Change may be at the ‘heart’ of these perceived grievances, change to merit based promotion, change to a new Police Act, and change in the way in which we manage disciplinary proceedings.”

And change it may be, as the petition also calls on Cabinet for his removal.

But Kelley continues, “What I can say is when I came to Tonga…my brief from the Tonga government was to initiate reform in the Tonga Police with the help of the tripartite government partners of Tonga, Australia, and New Zealand.”

“I am confident the changes we have put in place are responsible, appropriate, and in line with modernisation of a police service,” he said.

Regarding promotions, Kelley says he has instituted a “merit-based” process.

“Seniority is still a factor but only when all other factors are even,” he said.

An important part of the new Police Act, according to the Commissioner, is the ‘Constabulary Independence’ of the new Commissioner position. That is, there are separation of fundamental powers between the Minister and the Commissioner- which traditionally were all in the hands of the Minister.

Disciplinary proceedings have also changed in line with a more open and transparent process.

“Changes now reflect the public interest, accountability to government and no protection from public scrutiny.

“If a Police Officer commits a criminal offence, he is liable to the same laws and processes as any other member of the community,” he said

“If he has a breach of discipline his case is examined by a Police Employment Committee of Police Board, and he has a right of judicial review.”

“I am confident I can answer all of the issues that may be raised,” stated Kelley.

“We have come a long way in terms of re-development…We have been leaders in the change process with new laws and most of all, gained back public confidence.”

While the petition is still considered by Cabinet, Kelley says “The merits of any petition are not for me to judge but I would like the opportunity to answer any allegations and respond on behalf of our service to provide balance to any grievance issues.”

“I have every confidence in the Tonga Police and the Public should be reassured that we will co-operate fully with any inquiry.”