The prime minister of Tonga rejects claims he has interfered in the judiciary in admonishing the attorney general over a case.
Photo: RNZ
Akilisi Pohiva was upset the acting attorney general Aminiasi Kefu made a representation during the trial of Lord Tu'ilakepa on gun and ammunition possession charges.
Mr Kefu says he was simply doing his job in making the Crown's submission prior to the sentencing.
Mr Pohiva then wrote to Mr Kefu accusing him of ignoring public empathy, and lacking impartiality, independence and fairness.
He is unapologetic even though his outburst has been criticised by the Law Society while the judge involved released his papers to show what happened in the court.
"Yeah that's how they look at it. They are entitled to make their own comment but this is my position. I think I did my job and that is my duty and it is up to them to respond. And I already read their responses, so it is ok."
Tonga's prime minister, Akilisi Pohiva
