Tonga Prime Minister Akilisi Pohiva says he has no problems with moves by some people distributing a petition calling for his impeachment and removal.
Speaking at the opening of the 5th Pacific Media Summit in Nuku’alofa Tuesday, Pohiva said political opponents were behind the move which was supported by some members of the media.
“I have no problem with that,” Pohiva said.
“It is all part and parcel of democracy in the kingdom.”
Despite a report of Tonga’s international press freedom ranking with Reporters Without Borders dropping by two places, Pohiva maintains the government is committed to the freedom of the media even in a digitised world.
“You have also read that the reason for the drop is because of my government’s unfair treatment of senior journalists in the Tonga Broadcasting Commission. I have no problems with that. But let me assure you all, that it is a work in progress.”
Pohiva said as a journalist and advocate he had used the media to challenge the authorities and eventually became PM.
“I was critical of the government and now I'm getting a taste of my own medicine,” Pohiva said.
“I have no problem with that.”
Pohiva said journalists throughout the Pacific had a role to play in holding governments responsible to the electorate through strong reporting.
Photo by Loop Tonga. Caption: Prime Minister Akilisi Pohiva speaking at the opening of the 5th Pacific Media Summit in Nuku'alofa