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Tonga PM Says 'Proof' Of Corruption Submitted Against Former Government
Caleb
Fotheringham, in Honiara
Lydia
Lewis, RNZ Pacific bulletin
editor/presenter
Tongan Prime Minister Dr 'Aisake Eke says he has submitted claims of corruption against his predecessor's administration to the country's anti-corruption agency.
Dr Eke was elected to office in December last year, after former Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni resigned ahead of a vote of no confidence against him.
Dr Eke, who is in Honiara attending the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders' Meeting this week, has repeatedly claimed that Hu'akavameiliku's government misappropriated public funds.
He told RNZ Pacific that the proof of corruption against his predecessor is with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Tonga.
"We have some cases already submitted the to the anti-corruption office, and they are working on them right away. I think the proof is already with them, and they are now in the process of reviewing [it] for submission to the court," he said.
However, Hu'akavameiliku denies the allegations.
He says that both the 2022/23 and 2023/24 audited government public accounts showed no findings of fraud or misappropriation.
"The timing is interesting given [that the] general election is in November. The focus should remain on ensuring the proper institutions handle these matters fairly and transparently," he said.
"Allegations must follow due process, and politics should not interfere with the process and rule of law."
RNZ Pacific has contacted ACC Tonga for comment.
Tonga is set to hold its general election on 20 November.
Dr Eke said his government will "let our performance speak for itself", adding "and let the people decide whether what we have done so far is sufficient to get the confidence for us to have another chance".
Hu'akavameiliku said his priority ahead of the polls is to continue addressing the issues that are important to his constituency.
"Once we [are] confirmed candidates, then we will release our official manifesto," he told RNZ Pacific.
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