9 Mar 2005

French Polynesia opposition to probe dissidents

5:46 pm on 9 March 2005

Reports from French Polynesia say the opposition Tahoeraa Huiraatira Party has set up a disciplinary committee to look into the actions of two high-profile members, Jean-Alain Frebault and Georges Puchon.

Mr Frebault changed political sides three times in the past year and in the no-confidence vote last month, he voted against his party to help the Union For Democracy change the government.

Mr Puchon, who had been a minister under Gaston Flosse for eleven years, offered his services to the new President, Oscar Temaru, but failed to be chosen for a ministerial post.

The Tahoeraa wants the two politicians to explain their actions.

Another senior Tahoeraa member says the opening of the political scene as promised by Mr Temaru has to be between parties and not limited to individuals.