Queen's Representative Tom Marsters has been criticised for not attending Ui Ariki celebrations. Photo: Phillipa Webb / Cook Islands News
The Cook Islands oposition has criticised the Queen's Representative Tom Marsters for not attending the 50th anniversary of Ui Ariki Day.
The day honours the paramount chiefs of the Cook Islands and acknowledges their respect for Queen Elizabeth.
Mr Marsters is not there because he's been in Wellington to host a farewell lunch for New Zealand's Governor General, Lieutenant General Sir Jerry Mateparae.
The opposition remains concerned at what they consider Mr Marsters' lack of judgement over their recent failed attempt to remove Prime Minister Henry Puna.
The opposition say it is not within the Queen's Representative's jurisdiction to decide on matters of Parliament.
They say despite many requests they are yet to receive the legal opinion Mr Marsters relied on for his decision in dismissing the opposition's claim it had voted Mr Puna out of office.
Our correspondent says the opposition coalition believes the written legal opinion doesn't exist.
