5 May 2017

Former TBC chair refuses Tonga govt settlement

2:15 pm on 5 May 2017

A former chair of the Tonga Broadcasting Commission has refused an offer of settlement from the government related to her removal from the board in 2015.

Lady 'Eseta Fusitu'a's dismissal was later quashed by the Supreme Court.

Radio Tonga reported that an offer from the Minister of Public Enterprises Poasi Tei has been declined by Lady Fusitu'a.

The terms of the offer included no reinstatement, compensation of nearly $US18,000 plus interest, legal costs, the potential of additional payments and an apology.

A shortwave receiver constructed by the Ecko company, England c 1940.

A shortwave receiver constructed by the Ecko company, England c 1940. Photo: RNZ / Daniela Maoate-Cox

In 2015 Mr Tei recruited new directors and stated that the TBC's operation was on the rise and reinstating the plaintiff might stifle progress.

Lady Fustitu'a's lawyer said the offer was refused because it sent the wrong message to the public that there was no respect for the rule of law.

A civil case has been filed in court.

Earlier this month the latest TBC chair was also replaced by the government after complaints from Prime Minister 'Akilisi Pohiva about unfair reporting on his government's affairs.

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