Tonga's pro-democracy MPs have dominated speech making during today's sitting of parliament at which they will elect the prime minister for the first time.
Radio Tonga reports that up to the mid afternoon break, 11 of the 14 speeches made had been in support of the pro-democracy leader, 'Akilisi Pohiva, becoming prime minister.
The remainder were in favour of the other candidate, Lord Tu'ivakano, who's been nominated by the nobles' representatives together with a number of independent people's representatives.
The last two speeches will be made by Lord Tu'ivakano and Mr Pohiva.
Radio Tonga is covering today's proceedings of the House live, but like other media, will be asked to leave the parliament when the MPs vote in secret for their choice for leader.
