TONGA RIOTS PLANNED OR SPONTANEOUS?Date: 29 December 2006 The Tongan government have released a report saying the Black Thursday Riots in Nukualofa were part of a pro democracy plot to topple government and kill politicians.The pro-democracy movement in Tonga has recieved yet another blow with a report from the government claiming that rioting in Nukualofa was part of a plan to unseat the government and kill key politicical leaders.
Its a claim vehemently denied by key pro-democracy campaigner, Josh Liava'a.
He says the government should take responsibility for pushing the people to act and that they had been patient for too long.
(listen) Niu Fm Reporter Mema Maeli talking to Josh Liava'a
Meanwhile, Dr Okusitino Mahina, from Auckland University, says the November 16 riots were inevitable.... but that talk of killing the prime minister and cabinet ministers is just going overboard.
(listen) Niu Fm Journalist Tuaratini talking to Dr Okusitino Mahina
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