In the wake of media speculation regarding the running of the Tonga Rugby Union Authority, the IRB says it has written to the Tongan Prime Minister outlining its concerns there be no government interference in the make up of the Authority's Board.
The IRB wants assurances following a proposal tabled in the Tonga Parliament last week to make changes to the Board.
Rugby's governing body says any changes to the Board requires its approval.
The IRB established the authority in 2009 to tackle concerns about the administration of the Tonga Rugby Union.
The IRB has also clarified former Authority Chairman Bob Tuckey was appointed by the former Tonga Prime Minister in consultation with it and Tuckey's remuneration was taken care of by the Tonga government.
Tuckey resigned last week admidst controversy regarding the selection of Tonga's World Cup squad.
Coach Isitolo Maka had wanted to call on former captain Nili Latu but the board over ruled this and he consequentially wan't named in the original cup squad.
But the Tonga government has over ruled this and Latu has been included though Finau Maka remains captain.
