NUKU’ALOFA (PINA) — Tongan Police Minister Clive Edwards warned the news media of “legal consequences” if they “misreport” court proceedings over allegations of forgery and the finances of King Taufa’ahau Tupou.
Edwards said in statement that the court charges would in involve serious and sensitive issues for Tonga. They would also attract international attention.
The court proceedings involve publication of a letter said to give information about the king’s overseas bank accounts. This letter is said to be a forgery.
The warning comes amid international attention on the kingdom not just over the allegedly forged letter.
It also focuses on New Zealand claims of endemic corruption, apparent loss of millions of dollars of Tongan trust funds overseas, and the multi-million dollar business interests of the king’s oldest son and daughter.
Edwards said: “Certain elements of the media in particular are known for incorrect reporting and distorting circumstances to suit their own agenda. In a court case, only what is said and what happens in court can be reported.”
Edwards warned that misreporting and comments about proceedings could have legal consequences.
