Tonga journalists

Fury in Tonga at new limits imposed on media

The Ministry of Communication passed eight regulations in May, without seeking input from the Media Association of Tonga or others in the sector.

Media professionals have only now become aware of the law changes.

RNZ Pacific Correspondent, Kalafi Moala, said the regulations included a $TP2,000 penalty for publishing or broadcasting sensitive information, without defining this any further.

He said the government seemed set against criticism or questioning of its activities.

Tonga PM seeks probe over TV report

Kaniva reports the advice stems from a complaint from the ousted cabinet minister 'Etuate Lavulavu against TV anchors Vilisoni Tu'iniua, Salamo Fulivai, and studio manager Setita Tu'i'onetoa.

The TBC had broadcast a story alleging Mr Lavulavu had manipulated members of parliament ahead of the vote which saw the People's Party's Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa become prime minister this year.