BRIEF: Tonga Extends State of Emergency for the Tenth Time

Tonga is currently a constitutional monarchy, though there are political groups that advocate changing to a democracy.  Some of the pro-democracy elements were responsible for rioting and arson in the capital city of Nuku'alofa on November 16 of last year.

Radio New Zealand International reports that Tonga has extended its state of emergency for the tenth time since the riots that occurred in November of last year.  Prime Minister Feleti Sevele stated that public order is still seriously threatened, and Information Minister Afu'alo Matoto clarified that the main concern is that certain elements in the pro-democracy movement would spark renewed violence.  The state of emergency allows police and defense forces to exercise emergency powers in a demarcated zone.

Radio New Zealand International - Continued serious threats prompt extension of Tonga's state of emergency - 18 September 2007

Radio New Zealand International - Tongan emergency extended for fears of fresh violence - 18 September 2007