16 Jun 2006

Tongan challenge to parliament opening queried

12:50 pm on 16 June 2006

Tonga's Minister of Justice says the government is not satisfied with the reasons behind a group's decision to withdraw their legal action against the opening of parliament.

And 'Alisi Taumoepeau says the government has decided to carry on with the case.

The civil action by Noble Lasike and eight People's Representatives claimed that the constitution calls for the king to open parliament, instead the Princess Regent Pilolevu.

But, earlier this week, the group submitted in writing its wish to stop its court action.

However, the Minister of Justice says there was no legal or any other good reason given for their decision.

The lawyer for the group, Clive Edwards, says as the government and the Speaker want it to go ahead, it's fine by his clients.

Today's court hearing and will run till tomorrow, before a decision is expected early next week.