Planet Tonga Exclusive Interview with Semisi Sika (Tongan Business Owner & Concerned Citizen)
PT: How are you affiliated with the Democratic Movement in Tonga? Mr. Sika: I am not formally affiliated in the sense that I do not hold office in their committees, but I am definitely a supporter of Freedom and Human Rights. I believe in justice, accountability and transparency which are critical components that are missing from our current system of government here in Tonga.
PT: How would a more Democratic government help the people of Tonga? Mr. Sika: It would establish a system where people will be held accountable for their actions, whereas right now people are forced to accept the consequences of one man’s decision.
PT: Did you expect that a riot of this magnitude would take place in Tonga? Mr. Sika: Yes, I think everyone expected that something would happen. In fact, it was going to happen last year during the protest marches and the strike because many people were frustrated with the government, but many of the pro-democracy leaders did all they could to keep everything peaceful and under control. As Tongans, we led peaceful demonstrations everywhere, from the parliament, to the government, to the Prime Minister’s palace office, to the Princess, to the King’s palace and still there was no response. People were extremely frustrated, angry, and tired. I don’t think that the rioters wanted to harm anyone, but they were trying to get a message across to the government that they needed to be heard and it seemed that all the peaceful demonstrations were not working.
PT: Many media reports are saying that the rioters were told to this by the Pro-democracy leaders, to your knowledge is this true? Mr. Sika: I cannot speak for any of the pro-democracy leaders, but I will say that for myself, I am very against the violence, but I do understand the frustrations of the people and some of the pro-democracy leaders who have tried every peaceful avenue necessary to bring attention to the needs of the Tongan people. I understand how frustration, anger, and rage can lead to what happened on Thursday. If we look at history, it seems that these kinds of changes are usually brought about through much bloodshed, which is of course unfortunate, and I am glad that we haven’t gotten to that stage here in Tonga. I do believe that people should be held responsible for their own actions. For example, in the case of religion, something that is very important to our Tongan people, you may believe in the doctrines of your religions, but there will always be members of your religion who choose not to follow those doctrines. Do you condemn the religion? Of course not, perhaps certain church members give the religion a bad reputation, but that doesn’t change the key principles and beliefs of your religion. I think this is the same when we think about democracy. The principles of democracy are justice, accountability, transparency, etc and those are the issues I am supporting not the violent acts of individuals.
PT: There were many who were for pro-democratic changes but after the riots that took place on Thursday, have now decided not to support the pro-democracy agenda. Why do you think this is? Mr. Sika: These are people who clearly do not understand the issues and are having a hard time differentiating the issues. I believe we have to deal with each issue separately. The rioters should be penalized for what they did and the looters should also be penalized. I want to say that I absolutely do not agree with discrimination and harassment of Chinese business owners and those who are engaging in this should be penalized. At the same time, I think the government needs to take responsibility for the influx of Chinese business owners and families into Tonga, which came about through the illegal selling of Tongan passports. I think the fact that we live in a system that doesn’t allow the citizens to question the actions of their leaders is also to blame and the fact that we have a system of government where people’s voices and rights are ignored is also to blame. The events on Thursday did not just happen over night and I think people are hurt and devastated by what happened, and so am I, but that is no reason to justify the idea that we should not fight against political corruption.
PT: There have been some recent reports saying that the rioters were encouraged by Tongan business owners because they did not want the competition that Chinese businesses were bringing to Tonga. As a Tongan business owner what is your response to these claims? Mr. Sika: I think reporters are free to say what they want and perhaps they have evidence of this and I condemn those who would choose to support violence for economic profit. As a business owner, I completely disagree with those claims. I don’t know any other Tongan business owner who would intentionally plan something like this just to gain economic profit. This violence was not incited by Tongan business owners, this violence escalated because of the government’s tactics to delay any kind of discussion about the issues that are important to the Tongan people. There are some individuals who have chosen to be more patient and then there are others who are just fed up with all the waiting and being ignored consistently. I must say that most of the blame of what happened on November 16, 2006 otherwise now known as the “Black Thursday” violence lays upon the Government and the King. PT: In your opinion why did the “Black Thursday” violence happen? My own personal opinion is that our Kingdom is full of corruption and wickedness. I don’t think that wickedness and corruption is anything new, because we have seen this from the beginning of time, even relating back to Bible stories when nations were destroyed because of the wickedness of its people and especially its leaders. Sometimes we think of corruption and wickedness only in extreme forms of adultery, murder, robberies, etc, but I think that what we are suffering from in the Island of Tonga is PRIDE.
I am not trying to judge people, but anyone who pays close attention can see the obvious, which is that we have a royal family, a Prime Minister, and Cabinet Ministers who are extremely greedy and are puffed up in PRIDE. We live in an island where those at the top continue to benefit from the resources of the land and the taxes and hard labor of the working people and the poor. They refuse to make any changes because they know that everything they own, their security, their identity, and their nobility is all connected to the current governmental system we live in. The very idea that they would have to share resources, answer to the needs of their people, and be accountable for their actions is unimaginable to them. They believe they are entitled to everything they own because they were born into royalty and everyone else should just accept their place as servants in this society. It is their PRIDE that tells them they don’t need to listen to anyone, it is their PRIDE that makes them feel that it’s okay for people to live in poverty while they benefit off the backs of hard working people, and it is their PRIDE that will eventually destroy them.
So you ask me the question of why this violence started, well it started because of the PRIDE, corruption and greediness of our governmental leaders who have lost the respect and love of their people.
PT: Do you see this tragic event of the riots turning into something positive for the Tongan people? Mr. Sika: I am hopeful that something positive could come out of this. If out of this tragic event, we could begin to change certain structures in the government, such as having parliament voted in by the people, that would be a start and then we can continue to work on economic infrastructure, etc, but the government structure must be in proper position in order for the rest to function fairly
PT: Do you see democracy as the only avenue for people’s voices to be heard in the kingdom of Tonga? Mr. Sika: Yes absolutely! How else do you hear people’s voices if you do not allow them to speak? You cannot say you are listening to the voices of the people if you have a structure that doesn’t even allow them to speak or be heard!
PT: How would you respond to those who say that God made Tonga a monarchy and we should not fight against the leaders (royal family, cabinet minister, prime minister, etc.) that God has ordained to rule Tonga? Mr Sika: There are so many countries throughout the world whose leaders believe that they are ordained by God, when in fact they are just dictators who love absolute power. For example, Sadam Hussein thought he was ordained by God and we of course all know that he absolutely wasn’t. We all know that dictatorship must always come to an end because it’s not of God. God has blessed us with certain rights that we are born with, not earned, not given, but we are born with it. One of these gifts is “free agency” we should be able to choose for ourselves what is right and what is wrong.
PT: Many would probably argue that you want democracy because it works best for business, free enterprise and profits and that you have a hidden agenda as a businessman. Is profits and free enterprise the only thing that motivates your desire for a more democratic system? Mr. Sika: Absolutely Not! Many of the democratic changes that are being brought before parliament does not necessarily affect business owners! People are quite misinformed about many of the changes in the democratic agenda. For example, I have heard people say that if we accept democratic changes than Akilisi Pohiva will become King or Prime Minister. This is so far from the truth. Democracy does not equal Akilisi becoming Prime Minister unless of course the people decide to vote him into that position, but that’s the whole point which is that the people will have a say in who represents them. People will have an opportunity to make decisions for themselves and decide what works best for them.
PT: How would you respond to Tongans who reside overseas who say that Tongans living in Tonga have it so EASY because they live in a monarchy? Mr. Sika: First of all, I want to clarify that life in Tonga is NOT EASY! If it really was easy and equitable we would not have the mass out-migration of Tongans to countries overseas. Currently the people really have no say in what happens in government, they are forced to pay extremely high tax raises, inflation is rampant and there is no plan from government to increase wages or create more employment.
PT: The recent media reports have painted a picture of the youth in Tonga as thugs and criminals because of their part in the recent riot. Would you say that is an accurate image of the youth in Tonga? Mr. Sika: I absolutely disagree with the image that Tongan youth are thugs and criminals. Yes, many of the rioters were Tongan youth, but most of that came about because of convenience and opportunity. Just because they happened to be there and decided to take part in it does not mean they are all criminals who love to burn buildings and loot. It wasn’t something that was really planned, it just happened that many of the youth were hanging around in town, much of this has to do with the high unemployment rate in Tonga, no police supervision at the time and plus many of them come from poor families. I am not trying to condone the behavior but I am saying that much of the behavior of the Tongan youth who were engaged in the riots are very similar to other places where youth are on the streets hanging out with friends, some looking for trouble, other just trying to survive, and others just bored and looking for some excitement.
PT: Many who are frustrated with the government have decided to move to other countries. What keeps you in Tonga? Mr. Sika: First of all I care about this place because it’s my homeland. I am also very hopeful that things will get better here in Tonga. I have a vision about what I would like to see happen here in Tonga. I continue to carry that vision with me even through all the challenges that we face here. I firmly believe that democratic changes are the best option for Tonga. It is also a way to regulate corruption and the misuse of government funds. I think democracy is here to stay and that it is inevitable that these changes will happen. PT: How do you respond to those who say that the people in Tonga do not know what is good for them and so democracy would not work because they would rather just do as they are told? Mr. Sika: I am really saddened by people who believe this because it means that they look down on Tongans and feel that we are stupid and uneducated. We as Tongan people are extremely intelligent and knowledgeable. We know what we want and we know what we don’t want. We want more accountability from government leaders, we want to have a say in legislations that affect our lives, we want transparency from government, and we want our voices and issues to be heard and discussed. We don’t want to be told what to do by leaders who are not aware or don’t care about our needs and voices, we don’t want to pay high taxes to sustain the rich and lavish lives of those who are in the higher echelon of society, and we don’t want our children to grow up in a dilapidated economy, etc. Our Kingdom of Tonga leads all other countries in the number of college degrees in comparison to per capita and so of course we are extremely educated people. We are very capable of making our own decisions. The question should be: “Is the current governmental system ready to let the Tongan people do what they have always been capable of doing?” PT: What are your hopes for the future of Tonga? Mr. Sika: My hopes are that we will be able to reach out to the poor and make sure that everyone has the same rights to government resources, which are now being monopolized by the royal family and their supporters. Because I don’t believe the royal family and their supporters will gladly give up some of their power, I see the only way we can do this is through democratic changes. I look forward to the day when all government leaders will be required to report to the people and the tax payers, show accountability and transparency, reach out to the poor and give fair distribution of resources to all. I think this is the best thing we can do for our economy, our island and our people! PT: Mr. Sika, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with us. Mr. Sika: You welcome!
I find this interview biased and anti-government after all he is entitled to his own opinion. I could clearly see which side you are on Mr. Sika. I wonder if you find yourself in a more privileged position as a businessman following the aftermath on the 16 of November. As a reminder, corruption is thriving everywhere even in the purest form of democracy - it is a human disease not exclusive to the kingdom alone. By the way, the Tongan govenment is striving for a political change to better serve her people while maintaining the integrity and uniqueness of her culture. The pace maybe a little slow to your liking Mr. Sika but it is happening.
On a last note, the riot did not just flare up but instigated and the subsequent torching of the Tongatapu CBD was not coincidental but premeditated acts. For instance, why did most buildings in downtown Nuku’alofa went up in flame almost spontaneously while building complex owned by ‘Uliti Uata (a big time Temo) was left untouched? Kele’a office owned and operated by ‘Akilisi Pohiva “miraculously” survived. The ignorant hooligans responsible certainly set Nuku’alofa alight discriminately knowing who their friends were and foes alike.
Planet Tonga Exclusive Interview with Semisi Sika…
My own personal opinion is that our Kingdom is full of corruption and wickedness….
Pro-Tonga, i agree with you. All comments from Misi have focused only his side and clearly states that he’sn’t really aware what we was saying. I don’t think what happened was unplanned. No body wants to involve without having any tie to that event-meaning the youths that were involved must’ve been instructed and told.
You said that tongans are not stupid–definetly true! except this horrific event. I can say all the Demo and whoever involved were idiots. Life in tonga isn’t that easy compared to foreign countries. The main thing, people are misconducted by the pro-demo group. The only issue that I see that the majority of the supporters of pro-demo party is the “Authority” and other than that, they don’t even know what DEMOCRATIC is.
Dear Mr Sika
I commend you for your bravery and honestly expression your opinions! Very sound and insightful despite. Indeed strongly for democracy, in particular the “principles” of democracy.
I totally agree that it is the principles of democracy which are needed to be incorporated to our current system, in order for our people to accept the current form of government for this age of globalisation and technology. “If” our leaders/governors continue to ignore (may be not intentionally), then all of us Tongans (in Tonga and abroad) must expect the unexpected. Remember that there’s much riots and other physical demonstrations that our youth have learnt, or have been exposed to (for example, from TV, Media etc) + the deportees from overseas. These may be minimal issues, however, they are crucial to the daily runnings of a country. It is time that leaders know who they are leading! Are there still followers?
While on the other hand, the riot and other demonstration is totally of a no-excuse, no matter what! Damage had been done to our little island that we love and I only hope that we will positively stand together and build a better Tonga! Of course, problems are blessings in disguise.
‘Ofa & Hufia L
In light of the recent political outcomes in Tonga; anyone is entitled to free speech and fair ruling but no one has the right to rampage on a destruction spree. This is crime and should never be justified nor defended.
I find this statement from Semisi utterly debatable (and quote): “The question should be: “Is the current governmental system ready to let the Tongan people do what they have always been capable of doing?”
‘Capable of Doing?’. Like calculated structural abuse? Threat? Theft? Disrespect? etc…The small representation of people that have been active in this democracy movement have only put forth strengths and capabilities in destruction. I mean resort to democracy now?
Why should the government be blamed for those that are jobless, penniless, and all other blaming put forth?
If Misi and Uliti can successfully run a business why can’t anyone else not?
If the Indians and Chinese can create and market body wear why won’t the Tongans do the same and compete for profit. WHO SAYS THAT A LO’AKAU BODY WEAR CAN’T BE A HOT PRODUCT! A toume fashion wear show for our respected fakaleiti society is a ‘can’t miss’ event. The la’i niu and niumotu’u in ‘uta is abundant for manufacturing and definitely a great resource for business…
The Youth in Nuku’alofa certainly can be employed if they don’t spend too much time standing around there awaiting excitement. How about making good use of their time and talents to make money. Outside Tonga; everyone knows you have to earn a living because no one is going to give you money just because.
I have come across people in the islands without education but are hard workers and they run a local store, sell fish, weave and market their products. They make good money which they use towards children’s school fees/tuition, a decent home, food, contribute to fundraisings at church and school or others. They make it because they make good use of their time. Also, they don’t complain because it is simple - they are able to fulfill their needs. THEY HELP THEMSELVES FIRST BEFORE ASKING FOR HELP!
We brag of our educational percentile so we should definitely have the resources to outdo the foreigners…however, time had been wasted watching them instead.
The interview of Mr. Sika has got to be the first voice of the indiginous people of Tonga. The people have spoken. I share the same view with Mr. Sika in dealing with the government officials in the pass. I have felt the oppress as I have try to win their favor to get anything approve through them, whather be getting a container off the worf or getting alogations from the labor of commerce office or through the prime ministers office its just rediculous dealing with a system that look after its own interest rather than serving the people they are to serve. I do not condule the violence in Nuku’alofa but for the next few month government officials and legislaters must weight out the situations before accusing the pepertrator they must look within themself first before contemping the very people they are to serve. This must be or I see our little country turn in to other places in the world like Iraq or Middle East This now known black thursday takes Tonga back to the first time Nuku’alofa went up in flame when ‘Ulukalala and his worriors mark their frustration in their effort to unite Tonga. Now us Tongan both from within and abroad must come together to find solution best for the country as a whole. We must put aside our differences and find peacful solutions to the current situation. May God bless our effort to unite.
I believe that Tonga is a great nation with a God given destiny. The beginning of true change can and must happen by applying the following…
2 Chronicles 7:14 if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
Semisi Sika comments were very biased an unjustified. He and his parents (Viliami & Fusi) were one of the strongest supporters of pro-democracy. Give me a break Semisi, you wanted this to happen so you, ‘Uliti, ‘Ofa Simiki, Tu’i, etc. to profit from the whole nation. We saw all of you on TVs with very bitter and abusive words against our current leaders. You and your parents are one of a few people who were directly and indirectly responsible for what is happening in our poor island right now.
Talking about corruptions, please name one so we can all see how accurate you are.
The Royal Family has done nothing but to help Tonga.
Tongasat is the only private company in Tonga that already gave millions to the Government without a penny spent from our tax dollars. Tonga was so fortunate that a “palangi” chose only to do business with the Princess…no one else. Even our government did not have the capacity to run this kind of high profile business. If the Princess refused this opportunity, this palangi would have gone to Fiji or Samoa.
The Crown Prince was forced to the Electricity because Tonga Electric Power Board (TEPB) was almost declaring bankruptcy. TEPB tendered the sale of Electricity Distributions for months in our local newspapers and there was no one local ever interested, accept two tenders from overseas, but found they did not have the money. The Crown Prince then were forced in to the rescue. What have happened if he did not? Would not it be we now going back to candles and kerosene lightings? Did the Sika family has $30 million to buy out TEPB? Well, now North Power is pulling out of the deal, why do not you and your parents buy it? We have heard your father saying on TV and public places that he can afford to buy Shoreline. It is only USD$30 million plus my friend.
‘Akilisi has been poisoning all of you with lies for too long. And his lies went fit with your agenda of jealously, and then you turned around saying that we have been corrupted? The PM has been for so many times telling the nation that there is no corruptions in goveernment. You do not want to listen to him but, rather, you wanted him to listen to you. You know very well you cannot challenge these accusations in court because you do not want to prove you and your ‘temos’ wrong. The government has been nice and soft to you guys for so long.
We have a very good constitution to protect all of us Tongans. Since when we became slavery in Tonga? Has our government forced us to do anything we do not want to do? Or you refuse to pay taxes anymore? Or may be you want to be a Minister or PM like ‘Uliti. Slavery is only a language to motivate violence in Tonga.
Good luck to you and your family. What happened in Tonga took away our commercial rights, but yours and your colleagues. And worsely, you have helped killed a few people. How would you and your parents answer this to God?
Misi: I take my hat off to you. You hit it right on the nail. It is refreshing to hear some enlightening perspective in this hard times in Tonga. Tonga will always be my homeland. I agree with everything you said Misi. The Elites (King and the nobles) will never give up there ma’anga ngako freely. This is why there is always trouble when leaders think and believe that he is or they are better than everyone else. The economy of Tonga has the potential of reaching higher level but with what we have in Tonga to go by, businesses won’t really flourish until some changes will have to happen. What support is there in Tonga for small businesses? Its just frustrating to think about the current situation. If the new king is smart as I believe that he is, he should welcome the democratic change. Have every parliament position voted in by the people. Leveling the playing field and give back to Tonga what is rightfully there’s.. Every resources that brings in money to Tonga should go back to the government to help run the country. A government without check and balance is bound to fail and vulnerable to a revolution. If I were the King I would be smart and read the “writing on the wall” which says, “listen to your people” they are who you serve. That is the sole purpose of the King to serve the people not vice versa. I think that changes is unavoidable at this time. Democracy won’t be a perfect system in the beginning but considering the current system, it would be a big upgrade. In business, you make leaders take responsibility and changes will happen. Even a child given responsibility will most likely accomplish his chores. Educated man should have a better chances of fulfilling there post if they know that have accountability for there action and if they don’t perform, someone else will replace him. You get the idea. I am all for a change. Compared to how Tonga have progressed for the last couple decades we need a change.
Finally it came, The riot was long due! Tonga is still stuck in the dark ages where people ate dirt while the royalty and nobles dined on steak and wine. Those who condemn the riot are either Chineese or dey in the upper class. THey had a chance to make this right, now we gonna show em we aint takin no more . Power to the PeoPle!
I’m sorry Mr. Sika, but you and the Pro-Demo group REALLY got this wrong. Your PRIDE is as bad as everyone else; let’s just all accept that for the sake of all of us immortals. This violent act, and the destruction of our capital, could have and should have been avoided. This violence cannot be justified, even in the name of justice, and while I agree that the Government is partially at fault (to some extend), you and your Pro-Demo party are greatly responsible for this mess. Why would you and your “party” think and allow your supporters to destroy our country, and even kill our own people, and later come out and point fingers at the Government? You have disregarded the innocent people and the common-good of the whole country! Therefore, you should be ashame of yourself, let alone your involvement with the Pro-Demo group. You cannot enforce a foreign model and ideology on our people without any regard to our constitution, tradition, culture, and values - the very foundations that are considered appropriate in our socio-political lives, and especially needed in settling any dispute within our own “fale”. We all agree for political reform but there is an appropriate way, time and age, for this to happen peacefully and successfully. Like King George I said, “Ko e me’a faka’ofa ka ko e masiva ‘ilo!” You all might have to go back to researching our Christian values and beliefs.
Ditto Misi! The “ENTITLEMENT” mentality needs to be toned down from the upper class. As long as the attitude is “you serve me because I was born in to it, and you weren’t”, then TO will continue to have it’s problems.
Thank you Misi, it needed to be said and from a TOn living in TO too!
I’m sorry Mr. Sika, but you and the Pro-Demo group REALLY got this wrong. Your PRIDE is as bad as everyone else; let’s just all accept that for the sake of all of us immortals.
This violent act, and the destruction of our capital, could have and should have been avoided. This violence cannot be justified, even in the name of justice, and while I agree that the Government is partially at fault (to some extend), you and your Pro-Demo party are greatly responsible for this mess. Why would you and your “party” think and allow your supporters to destroy our country, and even kill our own people, and later come out and point fingers at the Government? You have disregarded the innocent people’s lives and the common-good of the whole country! Therefore, you should be ashame of yourself, let alone your involvement with the Pro-Demo group.
You cannot enforce a foreign model and ideology on our people without any regard to our constitution, tradition, culture, and values - the very foundations that are considered appropriate in our socio-political lives, and especially needed in settling any dispute within our own “fale”.
We all agree for political reform but there is an appropriate way, time and age, for this to happen peacefully and successfully. Like King George I said, “Ko e me’a faka’ofa ka ko e masiva ‘ilo!” You all might have to go back to researching and re-learning our Christian and cultural values and beliefs. Otherwise, “‘E ‘auha pe hotau fonua he ngaue pango ‘a e ni’ihi ‘o hange ko kimoutolu!”
I appreciate your perspective on the political unrest in Tonga. Whether I agree with you or not, it takes courage to share your personal viewpoints at this time of crisis. For Tongans everywhere, I hope this observation might balance out our understanding of the challenges facing Tonga today.
Seriously, our survival as a unique people is being tested. Our collective “Tongan Soul” is in danger of being erased.
I’m come to a conclusion that Black Thursday was there in zodiac in the beginning of time. It was already marked by the scale that this day would strike down the very heart of Tonga unless forewarnings are being told!! Accordingly, the “tala kei kapa na’ake to ki mala” was there, still, there was no sign of recognition!!!
Misi, you are certainly entitled to your opinion but Come On!!
The riot and looting that took place last week CANNOT and WILL NOT EVER be justified by any way, means or form. What good can anyone possibly say has come out of the events of Thursday 16th?
Each individual has formed their opinion as to whom is responsible for Black Thursday, and we won’t go into that for we will debate all night. Our judicial system will determine that and punish those responsible accordingly.
So time will tell and I am eagerly anticipating this day!!..
And Misi, here’s a thought!! How about you get together with your friends Tu’i and ‘Ofa and less talk and more of delivering the goods and services that has been destroyed.
I for one is missing the freedom to walk into Narothams and buy a nice piece of material for a new dress, Prema’s for a new iron, Lalita store for singlets for my son. I miss going into Friends and having a latte, the cinema to enjoy a movie on the big screen and many many more that Nuku’alofa business owners have worked hard for us to benefit from in the last ten years.
Again, I could go on all night but I won’t.
Thank you Semisi for the courage to express your opinion publicly knowing that you will get heaps of personal attack coming your way. Don’t be discouraged and stand your ground for you are not alone. There is two side to every story and both need to be exposed for us to explore the possibilities. Resorting to personal attack won’t solve anything but division.
Now is not the time to cut down but to build up..we have a crisis that we need to address. His majesty has spoken and he is ready to embrace changes and we are all looking forward to its conception. I don’t recall who said these words which comes to mind at this moment..’I may not agree with your opinion but I will fight to my death for you to have that right to express yourself’ or something like that..sorry people (turkey is already on my mind)..LOL..and If I am going to be so upclose and personal, please have the courage to put your real name in ink..
Ki’i fonua na’e tu’u he Oseni Na’e ikai ma’u Otua pea masiva he lelei (chorus) O malu’i o malu’i ‘a e kakai o e fonua and on second thought..pea mo kau Nopele moe Tui
Molisi73 says: “You cannot enforce a foreign model and ideology on our people without any regard to our constitution, tradition, culture, and values - the very foundations that are considered appropriate in our socio-political lives, and especially needed in settling any dispute within our own “fale”.”
Molisi, what the heck do you call Christianity? It’s a FOREIGN MODEL and IDEOLOGY, yet our ancestors were forced to embrace it by King Tupou I and now it is an inseparable part of the Tongan psyche. If that can happen, so can reformation of a very corrupt government!
Semisi, you and your Temo mates may believe in democracy, but what is certain as an outside observer, is YOU and your Temo prognosticators have absolutely no idea of how to go about implementing it. Let’s begin with the mess that has already been created in Nuku’alofa. The Temo’s in a few hours time fractured the heart of the economic infrastructure of Tonga’s commerce leaders. You destroyed the life-line and the will and hearts of those whose hands and feet provide for Tonga, with utter disregard for future development, and their involvement in the Temo community. Do you honestly believe these people who lost their businesses will back the thuggery exploitation by Temo leaders, and the mindless many that looted and burnt their livelihood and homes? Pride my friend, and the corruption that goes with it as you mentioned, knows no boundaries nor does it discriminate. Do you believe that perhaps this pride and corruption is already festering within the Temo movement? My friend, as an outside observer, it certainly seems so. And that’s not opinion. The evidence and fact of it are the images of a ruined district in your homeland. Chinese businesses were discriminately targeted (pride and corruption??? Do you begin to see your very own hypocrisy???) And the seeming hysteria, frenzy, and laughter that are heard in video clips of Temo sponsors looting from the very people that helped build Tonga. Those are the images people overseas observe and draw opinion. And don’t get me wrong. I live in a democratic society, and I believe in it. But don’t sit there and tell us that pride and corruption does not exist within the Temo movement. Just be careful what you say, it may apply to you too.
I am willing to bet you and your Temo’s partners have absolutely no idea how to even begin the rebuilding process. You and your friends will certainly look with mouths shut and hands in empty pockets toward the government for leadership to form a plan and financing to reconstruct a mess the Temo’s have created. That’s right, I bet the Temo’s will do nothing more than sitting and yelling for reform, while the country needs rebuilding. I imagine they’ll have absolutely no idea. Maybe ask Tongans overseas for remittance to help rebuild.
What your Temo party needs is true leadership. And up to now the Temo’s show no evidence that sound leadership is there – just anarchy and disagreement amongst their own proposals. With the capitol in ruins, their track record has little to show. And if you believe that all the Temo’s wanted was your voice to be heard. Well, we heard you. We heard you loud and clear. What can the Temo’s do now? Who will be the face of leadership for Temo implementation? Could it be there maybe nothing more than shouting, looting, and fires? I wonder whose side pride and corruption are on now.
Pasione: Kudos to you for the point raised. I don’t want to emphasise the need for “Christ-like” values in our lives. I only hope you can understand what I mean by “(dis)regard of our constitution, tradition, culture, and values” and how these are abused by the PRO-TEMO people. There is the “Tongan-way” and the “highway”…last week’s dreadful event shows the latter, which can’t be justified in any form or shape even in the name of “justice”. There are indeed great values we can adopt from “democracy” (just as we did with Christianity), but the way those need to be incorporated (and how much) must be carefully thought-out to go hand-in-hand with our socio-political culture. What happened last week is certainly NOT the way to go.
Fakamalo atu he faingamalie keu tatasiu atu he ngaluope ko ‘eni moe lafo faile ‘atamai koia ‘a Sika. My first impression is not the sciprt from the interview but from the feedback of various people pertaining to Sika’s point of view.From that I personally draw a perception that though we may be different in perspectives…but supposedly we all agree there is a much needed CHANGE in our country.Change is natural pheneomena,that we must learn to accept. just like knowing that tommorrow you will turn 50..and not the next day you will turn 60 but 10 years more.however much to our dislike there is always a time frame for it .To live, to enjoy and even to die …each of us is given a time for it.If we are wise enough than we at the end will know the purpose of life. Democracy is not entirely what the majority vote for…but essentially what is most appropiate and most noble for us. One of the most well known writer said this for our time, “the best of times.. and the worst of time”.Now we have seen the worst maybe ..however I hope that none had taken this opportune time for their own business nor political gains.I am saddened at this misfortune and those that have said nor believe that what was done was only the last remaining choice. I applauded you Sika for your informed view, for that you re entitle to it.However, I dont agree with you in some of your entanglements.You seems infuriated and full of anger from your saying, blaming endlessly the cause of this to the government.I donot like finger pointing..it does not bring any good..May we sit down and evaluate ourself..may be we have contributed to his in some way.. ‘OFA ATU
I don’t know about RIGHT and WRONG according to your own Principles. All I know is this: God is not taking side with those who are against the Leaders and the Government: Romans 13:1–And those who against the Leaders and the Government are against God. Bad Luck to you who support those people.
Anyone involves with any criminal act are “CRIMINALS”". The Pro-Demo Leaders fuels them with “ALCOHOL” like a “SUICIDAL BOMBERS” and they went out and rampaged the islands. JUSTICE HAS TO BE SERVED!!
We definitely can’t compared ourselves to Saddam. I do not see how Tongan in comparison with SADDAM. Irag have massive graves of people buried against their wills. We do not have any history of massive graves of Tongan people, buried against their wills, since the Monarchy rules over a century ago. How can you compare us to SADDAM?
We can’t justify any “CRIMINAL” behavior PERIOD!!! THE BOTTOM LINE WE CAN’T ALLOW “TERRORIST” TO RULE THE ISLANDS.
emeline faaumuniutei
passion fruit - nice name
Christianity was and is a compatible ideology to the Tongan way of life. the respect, humility, and natural hospitality that seems to be genetically imprinted upon the people of Tonga ,home and abroad, is catalyst to religion in any form. but to compare that to the drastic change in the political landscape of a country, borders on the absurd and makes claims for ridicule. i do not know of the current government and i have no idea who is running the pro-democracy movement. but do not think that the Tongan people home and abroad will sit idly and listen to folks stir this mess up by shouting out platitudes that may persuade one to stake claim to political beliefs.
for it is well noted that the lord will never temp us…. but Satan will. keep that in mind folks when you wonder who is doing the corrupting here!!! OUT!
Alesana Nuusila
‘Oku ou kole atu pe ki he Matanga’ keu ki’i hu atu ki loki talanoa ‘o kau he poolave he ‘oku ki’i lahi ‘eku ta’e mahino’.
Koe ngaahi fakamatala ‘oku ha ‘i lalo koe ki’i konga si’i pe ‘oe ngaahi tali ‘a Sika ‘i he faka’eke’eke ‘a e PT, pea ‘oku ou faka’amu pe ‘i he ‘eku ta’e mahino ke toe fakamahino mai mu’a he ‘oku ‘i ai e fihi ‘i he fakakaukau.’
Semisi Sika, “I am not formally affiliated in the sense that I do not hold office in their committees, but I am definitely a supporter of Freedaom and Human Rights”.
?????’, Koe ki’i fakakaukau ki ho’o tali ‘i ‘olunga ‘i ho’o pehe ‘oku ‘ikai keke memipa ka ‘oku ke poupou’i ‘enau ngaahi ta’umu’a’. ‘Oku ha mai ‘i ho’o tali’ kapau tenau fakaafe’i koe keke kau ‘i he ‘enau komiti teke loto fiemalie pe ki ai he ‘oku ke ‘osi tui pea poupou ki he me’a ‘oku nau tu’uaki mo malanga’i’.
Semisi Sika, “I don’t think that the rioters wanted to harm anyone, but they were trying to get a message across to the government.”
??????’, ‘E anga fefe ha’o faka’ikai’i na’e ‘ikai loto e kau maumau ke fakalavea’i ha taha lolotonga koia’ kuo mate e toko 6 ‘i he maumau na’e hoko’? Kuo ke toe pehe koe founga pe ia ke ‘ilo ‘e he Pule’anga e loto ‘oe kakai’. Koe fehu’i leva eni, kapau koe feinga ke ‘ilo ‘e he Pule’anga e fiema’u', koe ha ne si’i tutu ai e pisinisi ‘a e kau Siaina ‘oku ‘ikai ke nau kau he palopalema kuo tukuaki’i ki ai e Pule’anga?
Semisi Sika; “I understand how frustration, anger, and rage can lead to what happened on Thursday.”
?????’, Kapau na’e mahino kia koe ‘a e mamahi moe loto taangia ‘a e kakai’ na’e totonu keke malava ‘i ho’o fu’u mahino mo poupou ki he feinga liliu ‘o ta’ota’ofi ‘ene hoko’. Koe taki kotoa pe ‘oku ne malava ke ta’ofi hono kakai ‘o tatau ai pe pe koe ha e lahi ‘enau loto mamahi. Ko ‘Akilisi mo ‘Uliti moe komiti ‘a e Temo ‘oku nau pukepuke ‘a e kii (key) ki hono fakahoko ha lelei pe ha faka’auha ‘o hange koia kuo hoko’. Ne mahio mai ‘i he ngaahi lea ‘a e komiti TEMO ‘i he letio ‘a ‘enau fakangofua ke fai e maumau ‘i he ‘enau tu’u ‘o kaila kuo fai e ‘ikuna.
Semisi Sika; “My own personal opinion is that our Kingdom is full of corruption and wickedness.”
?????’, Kapau ‘oku mo’oni ho’o tui’ kuo fonu a Tonga ‘i he kovi moe fulikivanu ta ‘oku mahino mai ‘oku ‘ikai ha mo’ui faka-kalisitiane ia ‘i Tonga. Kuo ke fakata’e'aonga’i kotoa e kakai fai lelei ‘i he fonua’.
Semisi Sika; “I am not trying to judge people, but anyone who pays close attention can see the obvious, which is that we have a royal family, a Prime Minister, and Capinet Ministers who are extremely greedy and are puffed up in PRIDE.”
?????’, kuo ke pehe ‘oku ‘ikai keke fakamaau, ‘osi pe ho’o tala kuo ke toe fakamaa’opo’opo ‘o fakamaau’i e Fale ‘oe Tu’i moe Palemia moe kau Minisita.
Semisi Sika; “Bible stories when nations were destroyed because of the wickedness of its people and especially its leaders.”
??????’, ‘Oku ‘ikai potupotutatau ho’o ‘omai e Tohi Tapu ke fai ‘aki ho’o tala fakataataa’, ‘e anga fefe hano faka’auha ‘e he Tevolo moe loto fakapo moe fakapo’uli e kakai lelei (kau Siaina, ‘Initia) ke fakatonuhia’i ‘aki e maumau ne hono ‘i Tonga?
Koe ngaahi faka’auha ‘i he Tohi Tapu na’e faka’auha ‘e he ‘Eiki e kakai (kovi) faiangahala’, koe faka’auha ‘o Tonga’ koe faka’auha ‘e he Temo ‘Akilisi mo ‘Uliti si’i kau Siaina’ pea kau atu ai pe moe kau ‘Initia’. Koe kau taki fe ‘oku ke talanoa ki ai, kapau kuo mou tala ‘e ‘Akilisi koe me’a lelei pe ia na’e hoko pea hange ko ho’o lave’ koe fakatokanga pe kihe Pule’anga’. ‘Oku hange kiate au ‘oku mou feto’oaki’, kapau koe kau Siaina na’a nau tutu ho’omou ngaahi pisinisi’ koe lahi hono fakamamahi’i kinautolu kamou ta’utu pe ‘o sio’ tetau ui ia koe ha?
Joshua S Moimoiangaha
I agree and support 100% democratic changes taking place in Tonga and it was my understanding that the King had made quite clear after his coming into power acouple of months ago, that this was his intention..to bring about political changes. I was overjoyed to hear it. After ‘black Thurday’ the King delivered his speech at the closing of parliament and basically promised the same thing that he did back in september! Now the pro-demo leaders are saying that they are satisified with the king’s response - what a bunch of hypocrites. Black Thursday was obviously the intention of the Demo leaders. There was absolutely no need for black Thursday to occur, the process of democratic change was already underway. The blame cannot be pinned on the government. While there were some as you say Mr Sika who were merely in the wrong place at the wrong time and subsequently took part in the looting, the bulk of youths who took part in the destruction are not depressed unemployed individuals, as you make them out to be. They voluntarily abandon the huo and neglect ‘uta, to roam around looking for trouble. ‘Akilisi and his band of merry men gave these kids a job to do, which we clearly see in all the pictures, that they suceeded in accomplishing! I support the government and I am definitely not from the high class. Yes, the rioters need to be punished but the demo leaders need even heavier punishments. I dont respect you for having courage to share your thoughts, because I dont think it took courage at all, if that is the case we might as well praise the rioters for having courage to burn down Nuku’alofa!
Athol Greentree
Misi thank you for that great interview…. this is great .. as i stand as a youth of 2day… yes.. what you said is wat i had in mind…. and i did see what happen in 16/11/06… and thats what happen when they reject (pilarment)the voice of the people…. too bad… 4 saying yes later … we are tired of waiting the whole day….. so we had fun around nuku’alofa…. 2 u all we love ya … we just have to face the cosequences… but its all good.. all as well…..lol…..
Lote Malu
{Please forgive my Simple Comments on Such Complex matters}
Mr Sika Gives the impression that the Pro-Democracy Group will look after the poor, create more employment, his description of the movement seems Ideal, I think he has a great but Narrow vision of the Future of Tonga, with such promises come “HOW” I ask. Migration to the States has not been a horrible experience, and for those who wanted a peaceful get away to HOME, retreat back to Tonga for some R&R. Promises for more employment, if not properly contained will result in people losing land, unless Mr. Sika has an extra island stashed away some where, does Mr. Sika envision Grand hotels covering every beach like Hawaii? Cosequences come with wanting MORE. I’m Samoan, and do not have say in how Tonga is run, but I would glady fight for the last Polynesian Monarch in the whole of the South Pacific.
Tevita Lea’ena
Kainga Tonga, stop hiding behind RELIGION. Every Sunday, Tongans go to church for WHAT? O ai pe ‘o lotu loi, especially the “Elites”(King, nobles and their supporters. I do not go to church but I still remember the story of the bad king and the writing on the wall. Who cares if Sika is a pro-demo or not? Do we have any freedom of speech in Tonga or would you go to jail for treason? Hello Tonga, it is the 21st century not the stone age. QUIT THE BROWN NOSE.
Ana Moala
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