The Kiribati minister of labour is facing criminal charges in relation to beating up his former wife.
The minister, Boutu Bateriki, and his former wife appeared in court yesterday, but their case has been adjourned until February the 18th.
Two MPs, Patrick Tatireta and Tetaake Kwong, have called on the minister to step down, saying he has broken the law.
Mr Tatireta says government has supported the family bill to protect children and women from abusive men and the behaviour of the minister undermines the confidence of people in the government.
The MPs say they are sure the president will deal with the matter accordingly.
