Tonga MPs told to go home as PM office is unaware of Prime Minister’s alleged dismissal

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http://kanivatonga.co.nz/2017/08/king-officially-dissolves-parliament-new-election-in-november-crown-law-website-says/

The Members of Parliament were told this morning to return home as the House was closed down for the rest of this term.

The Prime Minister’s Office was unaware of any decision the King has dismissed the Prime Minister, a spokesperson from the Office told Kaniva News.

She said the Office was inquiring and would release a statement soon.

Reports on social media this afternoon cited Tangata Pasifika Correspondent John Pulu as saying the King has “dissolved” Parliament and “dismissed” Prime Minister ‘Akilisi Pohiva.

But Pulu told Kaniva News “ I am still waiting on official word from Tonga will keep you posted…”

Lord Tu’iakepa has confirmed they were told this morning to go home but when he was told it has been reported the King has dissolved the Legislative Assembly he said they have yet to receive any official statement about it.

“Ko e tala mai pe ia ke mau foki ki ‘api ‘e tapuni e Fale Alea ki he ta’u ni ko ia pe”, Tu’ilakepa said.

Translated: “We were told to go home the Parliament will be closed down for this year that was it”.

Lord Tu’ilakepa was unaware of any decision to dismiss Prime Minister ‘Akilisi Pohiva.

A lady in Parliament said the Chief clerk and the Speaker were in a meeting.

When she was asked we wanted to talk to one of them she hung up the phone.

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