News
Tonga crippled by riots
20 November 2006
Tonga is in the midst of violent riots which have left eight people dead and brought the country to a standstill.
The capital, Nuku'alofa, has been closed off as rioters make their feelings known to the government over political reforms.
Officials say that at least eight people have lost their lives since rioting began on 17 November.
Around 80% of businesses in the capital have been torched and the Tonga government has called for military support from Australia and New Zealand.
The riots centre on recent political unrest in the region, with pro-democracy campaigners angered by the fact parliament went into recess without voting on proposals for democratic reforms.
The government has now bowed to pressure and will hold elections in 2008 which will see the majority of members directly voted for by the population.
Tonga's prime minister, Fred Sevele, has stated that he would like to see around 150 troops and police called in from Australia and New Zealand to protect the airport and help to bring calm to the region.
© Adfero Ltd
The capital, Nuku'alofa, has been closed off as rioters make their feelings known to the government over political reforms.
Officials say that at least eight people have lost their lives since rioting began on 17 November.
Around 80% of businesses in the capital have been torched and the Tonga government has called for military support from Australia and New Zealand.
The riots centre on recent political unrest in the region, with pro-democracy campaigners angered by the fact parliament went into recess without voting on proposals for democratic reforms.
The government has now bowed to pressure and will hold elections in 2008 which will see the majority of members directly voted for by the population.
Tonga's prime minister, Fred Sevele, has stated that he would like to see around 150 troops and police called in from Australia and New Zealand to protect the airport and help to bring calm to the region.
© Adfero Ltd
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