7 Nov 2007

Pacific judiciary remains independent despite instability, says Tongan King

7:43 pm on 7 November 2007

Tonga's King George Tupou the Fifth has praised the region's judiciary for remaining independent despite the recent unrest and instabilities.

The King made the comment while welcoming judges from around the Pacific who have convened in Nuku'alofa for the 17th

Pacific Judicial Conference.

The Tonga Broadcasting Corporation quotes him saying various Pacific countries, including his Kingdom, have undergone a period of instability recently.

He said these countries can take comfort from the fact that throughout the period of unrest the Judiciary has remained

independent.

The King adds the Judiciary's integrity is largely due to the tradition of Justice enjoyed by the region during the past hundred years.