Tonga Pacific Games 2019

A PNG delegation visited Nuku'alofa in February to assess the local facilities and indicated a willingness to help refurbish Teufaiva National Stadium.

However last month Tonga's Games Organising Committee CEO, Feleti Sevele, said that work was yet to begin and uncertainty remained.

But PNG Sports Minister Justin Tkatchenko said they had not forgotten about Tonga.

Mr Tkatchenko said a submission regarding assistance is ready for the PNG National Executive Council.

The Council says the sacking of the head of the local organising committee by a government Authority doesn't stand because it contravenes the 2019 Games hosting agreement.

However the government said Tonga and its people is the recipient of the Games and it will be the government's decisions that ultimately implement the event.

The Deputy Secretary 'Eti Teumohenga said the Council has been out of line with its communications with the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister's Office released a statement saying the Audit and Governance Authority, chaired by 'Akilisi Pohiva, had sacked Lord Sevele as CEO and chair of the committee.

However, Lord Sevele said he remained in his position.

He said the Pacific Games Council was the only body that can fire him.