By Sarah E. Treptow
Impunity Watch Reporter, Oceania

KOLOFO’OU, Tonga– In downtown Kolofo’ou in Nuku’alofa, Tonga’s capital, some residents are speaking out in support of the ongoing extension of the emergency powers in the Central Business District of Nuku’alofa.  The emergency powers have been enforced since November of 2006 when riots led to the death of eight people and millions of dollars in damage.  Rioters burned down most of the major shops and businesses in town.  The emergency powers lapsed in August of this year but were renewed in September.  The renewed emergency powers give soldiers and police a wider ability to detain and arrest.

A number of people expressed disappointment and anger in the prolonged enforcement of the emergency powers.  They claim their freedom is being restricted.  But Tevita Manu Fasi, the town officer of Kolofo’ou, has told Radio & TV Tonga News that he believes the government and authorities should continue protecting  the town so the residents can live in a safe environment.  Mr. Fasi said, “I understand some people say they’re being affected in their movement and feel secluded because of the ongoing imposition of the emergency powers in Nuku’alofa but I know those people do not live here in the capital.”

Another resident, Tu’ipolutu ‘Ilavalu, claims the ongoing enforcement of the emergency powers is to ensure that everyone is safe, especially the city’s residents and businesses.  Ms. ‘Ilavalu said, “I understand that with the emergency powers some freedom is not restricted like the freedom of movement but we fear that some men trespass from time to time and they consume liquor in town, they’re people we do not know.  Such behavior never occurred in this town before.”

The Prime Minister, acting on the advice of the Minister of Police, has formed the opinion that public order in the Nuku’alofa area continues to be seriously threatened and it is necessary to keep the emergency powers in that area.

For more information, please see:

Tonga Broadcasting Commission – Kolofo’ou residents support ongoing enforcement of emergency powers – 05 December 2008

Radio New Zealand International – Some residents in Tonga capital speak out in support of emergency powers continuing – 05 December 2008

Radio New Zealand International – Anger in Tonga after emergency police powers put back in place – 10 September 2008