The fear of disruptive elements is the reason being given in Tonga for the government extending its emergency powers for a ninth time.
The Minister of Information, Afu'alo Matoto, says the government has confirmed that it will extend the state of emergency for Tongatapu from the end of this week, for another 30 days.
Mr Matoto says the decision was made on the advice of police.
"I think the real fear is that there are some undercurrents which could, if allowed to exercise themselves freely, could erupt into something which is nasty and people would not be happy to see that. So, really it's just a matter of precaution being exercised."
Afu'alo Matoto, Tonga's Minister of Information.
