The Cook Islands Prime Minister Henry Puna says his leadership is under no threat despite the attempt from the Opposition to overthrow his government last week.
Mr Puna, who was travelling to Palau to attend a regional meeting, had to return home after a political meltdown which saw the Opposition passing a vote of no confidence against his government.
The Opposition's effort was deemed illegal by Queen's Representative Tom Marsters, who stood by the decision of the Speaker to adjourn parliament indefinitely over a week ago.
Cook Islands Prime Minister Henry Puna Photo: Phillipa Webb / Cook Islands News
Mr Puna said he had the strong support of his caucus and his position as prime minister was under no threat whatsoever.
The Cook Island News reports he condemned the Opposition action saying it was very embarrassing because the reputational damage had been huge.
Mr Puna said there had been a period of political stability which had been respected by the region but the week had undermined some of that good work.
The Prime Minister also hit back at Opposition criticism of Mr Marsters saying it was unfair and unjustified to denigrate the position of Head of State.
