Another petition against Police Commissioner Kelley

By Tevita Motulalo

THERE has been a second petition by members of Tonga Police against the leadership of Commissioner Chris Kelley, signed and submitted to the Minister of Police Hon. Viliami Latu.

The Minister of Police Viliami Lātū

Petitioners assert outright that the position of Commissioner of Police should have been given to a Tongan.

“What has happened to those who have acquired enough high degrees and renowned in the Department, are they bad and unworthy?” is the question asked in the petition.

The letter states that if nothing is done to address the matters raised in the apparent grievances, the morale, complacency, and corruption within the force will not get better.

The writers state confidently that “If the issues we raised were asked individually to all the members of the police, at least 95% will agree and believe the same as we do,” and signed by about 150 members of the force.

Police “illegally” imposed incomplete regulation

By Tevita Motulalo

It seemed that Tonga Police hastily put in place regulations that had not passed through the full legal process, and so were “illegal”.

The Cabinet had recently revoked an earlier decision to increase firearms licensing fees on the basis that not only was it illegal, but also it was ineffective in realising visions of a safer community.

Ministry of Finance will now refund holders who registered their guns under the increased fees. The total cost of the refund is estimated to be more than $30,000 pa’angas.

Police Commissioner Christopher Kelley apologises for the error.

“I take full responsibility,” he said.

Lord Prime Minister works hard to form a people’s Cabinet

© Tevita Motulalo

THE Kingdom of Tonga's first Prime Minister nominated by a majority popular elected Parliament, Lord Tu‘ivakano, is trying tirelessly to form his new Cabinet, comprising of a majority of people’s representatives.

Long time MP ‘Isileli Pulu, is said to have agreed the take up the “Minister for Revenue” portfolio in Tu‘ivakano’s Cabinet. He is one of the leading names in 'Akilisi Pohiva’s Friendly Island Democratic Party,

Lord Fakafanua broke the news today following further meetings between the PM and MPs. He has been the spokesman for the alliance of free MPs (which includes the Nobles) during the campaign for the nomination for the Prime Minister.