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'Ikale Tahi: The light at the end of the tunnel

By
Kaniva Staff
-

by Emeline Tuita, Chief Executive Officer, Tonga Rugby Union

THE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL: I am going to personally apologize to the global Tongan rugby community that on my watch as the CEO of the TRU, this governance crisis at the Board level has occurred. For the most part it has been about my appointment as the CEO since the 16th of January, 2013. What started off as my acceptance of a terms of reference for a CEO appropriate for this season of evolution of the Tonga Rugby Brand, has ended in a rather ugly stalemate which commenced with an apparent dissatisfaction with the President for supporting a CEO who had not played rugby or played on the national team, of good education, had managed a business and belonged to a rugby club. Unfortunate requirements for a woman in a country where the rugby development program for women is just evolving.

The Governance Crisis, created by five Tongatapu Sub-Union members, the 'Eua Sub-Unon representative to the Board, led by the Vice-President, has as the weekend draws to a close, appears to have been a senseless exercise in unadulterated abuse of power and authority and conflicts of interest. This has translated during the past ten weeks, to on-going attempts to oust the President, and there have been four or five termination letters to the CEO supported by attempts to humiliate publicly in the local media. There has been no regard to the risks to the sport of rugby in terms of integrity, credibility or financing, nor the potential liabilities to the Tonga Rugby Union for unlawful conduct, but outrageously, no regard whatsoever for the players who voluntarily participate to bring the Kingdom of Tonga to the global stage. During this period, the 'Ikale Tahi Sevens Team has gone to London and are now on their way to the 2013 Sevens Rugby World Cup. The Under 20s participated in the JWRT in Chile. And the 'Ikaletahi journey we have all followed and we are all disappointed in the current outcome at the governance level and acknowledge the high performance level of our team.

Is there light at the end of the tunnel? Definitely and it is not about putting more money in or contributing points of view or venting, it is about a simple action of standing up and saying to the Tonga Rugby Union, this is not good enough, we must put a stop to this now. A simple requirement to the Tonga Rugby Union is to: PUT THE PLAYERS FIRST and CONSISTENTLY PROMOTE THE INTERESTS OF THE NATION IN THE SPORT OF RUGBY ACROSS ALL LEVELS.

For the more cynical of us, let me assure you that this is not about maintaining my role as the Chief Executive Officer of the Tonga Rugby Union. I have legal avenues that can resolve any issues that have arisen from the last 6 months and I am pursuing that separately and off-line.

This is about standing up on matters of principle, to right grievous wrongs of the past with the governance of one of the nations most valuable asset – our present and future rugby players. The strategy is carefully crafted so that it does not impact ongoing operations of the Tonga Rugby Union, and maintain dialogue with our key stakeholders including the Government and potential sponsors. I should like to take position as the lead plaintiff and need names and addresses, contact numbers of any supporters of Tonga Rugby and the 'Ikale Tahi to be named in a class action suit that will compel the Tonga Rugby Union governance powers, whether it be the Union in Meeting or the Board of Directors to follow the Constitution of the Tonga Rugby Union to the letter and uphold the rule of law in the Kingdom. We cannot hope to succeed in the national sport of Tonga as long as we allow the will of a few to arbitrarily impact the chances and opportunities that God has given to Tonga in the form of rugby talent for a title or for a season. The socio-economic value of our players far exceeds this and as long as we take national pride in the sport of rugby and the performance of our boys, then let's put in one supporter at a time.

An email has been opened for you to take a few minutes and register your interest in the longevity of Tongan Rugby but more importantly ensure that our national players are provided every ounce of support possible. As part of the Global Tongan Rugby Community, If you want to support that "The Tonga Rugby Union to follow the Constitution and uphold the Rule of Law and for the Courts to assist" then please email your support to:

put.players.first@gmail.com

Please provide Name, address, mobile or contact telephone and a short line in Tongan or English stating that you wish to support a submission of the Chief Executive Officer to the Courts for The Tonga Rugby Union to follow the Constitution and uphold the Rule of Law and for the Courts to assist.

Please cut and paste this on your pages so that come the game tomorrow, we have as many supporters as we can for the submission on Monday. Please do not submit your details if you do not want to have your name on public record.

Does this help the 'Ikale Tahi get funding quicker? Absolutely. And it sets the stage for a properly governed TRU which is subjected to the principles of good governance, transparency and accountability and operates to international standards. The national pride should rest not only in the players but also the manner in which we govern rugby because both are on the global stage.

Emeline Tuita, Chief Executive Officer, Tonga Rugby Union

Tongan Rugby Union has no money to pay its players an allowance, it was claimed this week.

By
Kalino Latu
-

With Tongan team ‘Ikale Tahi playing its final game in the PNC tomorrow June 23, coach Mana ‘Otai and team members have appealed to the public for help.

‘Emeline Tuita, who is CEO of one of two rival bodies that claim to represent Tongan Rugby Union, said players who were invited to represent ‘Ikale Tahi were told  in writing there was no guarantee they would be given allowances.

Tuita said players would still be paid by their clubs and the allowance was to show appreciation for their willingness to play for ‘Ikale Tahi.

Coach ‘Otai said earlier this week there was no sign the players would be financially rewarded.

He said the TRU normally pays a weekly allowance of TOP$1000 for Ikale Tahi team members.

‘Ikale Tahi captain Nili Latu told Kaniva News it was not morally fair for the TRU to not pay the team’s allowance. Tongan-based players and some in New Zealand who did not play for clubs would suffer financially.

Latu said his captainship is heavily affected by upheavals within Tongan rugby.

He said the team did its best for Tonga, but the infighting at the TRU was a headache.

The TRU split in April after five years of turmoil during which five chief executive officers and four presidents were sacked.

Tuita and president ‘Epeli Taione were dismissed by the current board in April.

Since then there have been two separate TRU committees, each of which claims rights to  ‘Ikale Tahi.

The sponsors including the government wanted TRU to sort out its dispute first before they step in and give assistance, Tuita said. 

It is my job, but I have to stay here in the office and to make sure things are in place from our end as it is really difficult to handle things here, Tuita said.

TRU had no part in the fundraising appeal by the coach and team members. They do what they did in USA. They had fundraisings with the help of Tongans there and the money raised went straight to the team, Tuita said.

Coach ‘Otai said all donations and donors names and the amount donated would be publicly announced.

Otai and two so far un-named team members will act as trustee and signatories for the moneys raised.

Public reaction to the situation has been one of outrage.

Tongan Paula Latu posted on the Kaniva site asking: Why is Tongan rugby in a mess and chaotic. Do we have the capacity to organise rugby in this country.

Tupou High School celebrates golden jubilee

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Free Weslyan Churchʻs Tupou High School, is celebrating its 50th Anniversary Jubilee this week with activities Thursday to Sunday 23 at Fasi and Vaolōloa campuses.

Known as Siasi UÄ“siliana Tau’atāina, the largest denomination in Tonga, founded the high school in 1963 with fifteen students as a continuation of the Free Wesleyan Church’s commitment to educating the populace and to provide a place for further training and preparation of those willing to serve the church.

The High School now serves more than a 1000 students.

The programme featured a launching of John Thomas’s (1826 missionary to Tonga ) book, “The History of Tonga” on June 21.  The book was compiled by former principal, Rev. Dr. Geoff Cummins and edited by Dr. Nigel Statham.

It followed by a luncheon and entertainment, hosted by staff and students of Tupou Tertiary Institute, at Maamaloa Grounds. 

The founding  principals, Dr. John Norman and Dr. Geoff Cummins talked on their experiences during their days at Tupou High School.

The celebration continues today with the memorial service led by the President of the FWCT, with His Majesty, King Tupou VI, as the Royal Guest of Honour. 

During the service, there will be an unveiling of the plaque at the vestry where the first classes in 1963 were held. 

The celebration will close on the evening of the June 23 with a “Polotu” or farewell service. 

The first 15 pioneers were Kolianita Manu, Pisila Taufe’ulungaki, Lute Sisifa, and Lavili Finau from QSC. Takai Luatangi from Tonga College, Tevita K. Heimuli and Sione T. Naufahu from St. Andrew’s School, Tevita H. Maliu, Kalapoli Paongo, Tevita Talakai, Pita T. Kupu, Tevita T. Afeaki, Paula Tamo’ua, Mosese ‘Aholelei, and Viliami Ha’unga from Tupou College.

Dux of School: 1963 – 2012

1963 :  Kalapoli Havea Paongo

1964 :  Havea Molisi Tamanika

1965 :  Havea Molisi Tamanika

1966 :  Mesui Saafi

1967 :  Liufau Vailea

1968 :  Fusi Uatekini

1969 :  Lopiseni Faleafa

1970 :  Viela Kinahoi

1971 :  Manu Puloka

1972 :  Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa

1973 :  Penisimani Loseli

1974 :  ‘Alifeleti ‘Atiola

1975 :  ‘Elikena Halaliku

1976 :  ‘Asinate Samate

1977 :  ‘Aisake Takau

1978 :  Keith Moala

1979 :  ‘Ilaisaane Laulaehau Mavae

1980 :  Lokanesi Helu

1981 :  ‘Aisake Valu Eke

1982 :  ‘Alisi Talia’uli

1983 :  Palu Tu’ipulotu

1984 :  Lopiseni Leha

1985 :  Taniela Vakasiuola

1986 :  Kolopeaua Tonga

1987 :  Fisi’italia Lasike

1988 : Netane Vaka

1989 : Laiseni Kata

1990 : Lei Paasi

1991 : Po’ese Vatikani

1992 :  Luvoluva Napa’a

1993 :  Lisiate ‘Uhila

1994 :  Salome ‘Akau’ola

1995 :  Nomani Soakai

1996 :  Erling Veetutu

1997 : Sione Fineanganofo

1998 : Viliami Tuipulotu

1999 : Siosaia Fifita

2000 :Tupou Pulupuna

2001 : Motekiai Masima

2002 : Sione Tongia Halaapiapi

2003 :  Vatau Taunga

2004 : Christine Marie Tracy Tuipulotu

2005 : Sovaleni Masima

2006 :

2007 : Semisi Aholelei

2008 :

2009 : Cynthia Otumuli 

2010 : Maylin Chan

2011 : Setaleki Siu

2012 : Suliana Kanongataa

Head Prefect of School 1963 – 2013

1963 :  Tevita Heimuli Maliu      &    Kolianita. Manu

1964 :  Tevita Heimuli Maliu      &    Pisila Taufe’ulungaki

1965 :  Tevita Heimuli Maliu      &    Pisila Taufe’ulungaki/’Amelia Sivi Faletau

1966 :  Liufau .V. Saulala         &    Meliame O. Simiki

1967 :  Liufau V. Saulala          &    Meliame O. Simiki

1968 :  Semisi. E. Latu             &   Sela Na’a Latu

1969 :  ‘Ofa Kavapalu              &   Lesieli Ikatonga Kupu

1970 :  Mosese Vaha’i              &   Mele’ana Puloka

1971 :  Sione Lutui                  &   Simoa ‘Alipate

1972 :  Sione Lutui                  &   Ane Fifita

1973 :  Viliami Puloka              &   Salote Maile

1974 :  Manase Latu                &   Ma’ata Havea

1975 :  Lata’imuli ‘Atiola           &   Tangikina Moimoi

1976 :  Penisimani Mone           &  ‘Asinate Samate

1977 :  Foukimoana Mafi           &   Mele Taulanga

1978 :  Viliami K. Tu’ipulotu        &   Siosi’ana Mafi

1979 :  Viliami K. Tu’ipulotu        &   Siosi’ana Mafi

1980 :  Tupou Tu’ilautala           &   Siosi’ana Mausia

1981 :  Latulala Toetu’u             &   Monika Vailolo

1982 :  Latulala Toetu’u             & Lotokalafi Finau

1983 :  Lamataimi ‘Alofi             &  Lilio Fakava

1984 :  Sione Mafi                     &   ‘Akanesi Masila

1985 :  Kamaloni Tuiono???     &  ‘Ana Maloni.

1986 :   Simione Finau             & Lute Latukefu.

1987 :  ‘Atunaisa Mafile’o         & Luseane Tolu.

1988 : Paula Vaea                    &  Nunia Faletau

1989 :  Sione Mafile’o               &   Melefusi Ma’afu

1990 :  S. Folau Tolu                &   Ma’ata ‘Ulu’ave

1991 : Sione T. Fakakovikaetau &  Taufa Tu’ipulotu

1992 :  Teuli Ma’u                       &   Luvoluva Napa’a

1993 :  Ti. Liku Hingano             &   Peki Tu’i’onetoa

1994 :  Sione ‘Akau’ola              &   Tiliame Halauafu

1995 :  Vatuvango Mavae          &   Mafi Tu’amoheloa

1996 :   Taniela Sila                   &   Mafi Tu’amoheloa

1997 :   Sione Tu’ungafasi         &   Senolina Tu’ungafasi

1998 :   Sione Uasi                    &  Lolohea Taueli

1999 :   Fononga Lea’aliki         &  Sela Soane

2000 :   Fononga Lea’aliki         &  Lepolo Fosita

2001 :   Paula Vea                    &   Sela Soakai

2002 :   ‘Unaloto Falevai           &   Nancy Vave

2003 :  Tekiela ‘Aukafolau         &  Sela ‘Uluheua

2004 :  Feleti Tu’iniua                &   ‘Avalu Tupou Mavaetangi

2005 :  Sovaleni Masima           &   Lupe Tiueti

2006 :  Christopher Tukutau     &  ‘Ana Kalaleti

2007 :  Malakai Faletau            & ‘Ana Luani Vai

2008 :  Sioeli Tautua’a              &  Susitina Maile

2009 :  Kulisitofa H. Lomu         &  Loata Finau

2010 :  Kulisitofa H. Lomu         &  Faiva ‘Eteaki

2011 :  Mateaki Lakai                &  ‘Olivia ‘Eteaki

2012 :  Sioeli Filihia                   &  ‘Olivia ‘Eteaki

2013 :  Tevita Liu                       &  Sesika Finau

Retrieved from:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/TupouHS.Golden.Jubilee/files/

‘Ikale Tahi coach appeals to communities for help in paying players allowances

By
Kaniva Staff
-

It has been revealed that the ‘Ikale Tahi team players have not been given any allowance since the beginning of their PNC tournament 2013.

Tonga coach Mana ‘Otai made an emotional appeal this morning June 20 on Facebook saying, “I am writing to ask for your help in trying to compensate the players for their love, commitment and sacrifices both on and off the field to serve our God and Tonga on this platform”.

‘Otai says the players  “have not been paid anything except for donations received from USA Tongans”.

There were 32 players called for the ‘Ikale Tahi team during the PNC tournament and the increased number has been due to injuries and suspensions made against the team, he says.

“They normally have a player allowance of $1,000 pa'anga a week and this is nothing compared to what our Pacific neighbours give their players,” ‘Otai says.

“We are doing a '' A $1.00 per person" donation to help the players with their allowance and we ask for your generosity.

"The players have an account with ANZ Tonga named : 'Ikale Tahi Players' Association: The account number is: 1793372 and please use your name as reference. Western Union and Melie mei Langi do transfers from throughout the world.

The Trustees/Signatories are myself and two players for check and balances. Your donations is for the players only and a full report will be released on how much, received and distributed to players”.

Police release names in Vava‘u murder case

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Police have released the names of the accused and victim in a murder case in Neiafu, Vava‘u where the victim was axed to death on June 18.

Superintendent Inspector Netane Falakiseni  identified the  accused as 27-year-old Sione Moa of Neiafu.  

The victim was 17-year-old Siale Tafa Vea'ila of 'Otea.

The accused remanded in police custody and is expected to appear at the Vava‘u magistrate court on July 14.

Police responded to a call at 6:00am on June 18 and found Mr Siale Tafa Vea'ila to have died in the scene after he fell down in a vain attempt to take away an axe from Sione Moa.
Sione Moa threatened to kill his own sister with the axe after she arrived home early in the morning.

The accused struck Vea’ila three times on his neck and allegedly killed him immediately.  

Correction: We corrected this article after removing the phrase “her sister” as it was mistakenly used.

Canada defeated – chances for Tonga & Fiji over PNC Title

By
Kaniva Staff
-

The Canadians’ unbeaten run since PNC tournament began came to a shuddering halt against Japan at Nagoya Municipal Mizuho Park Rugby Ground today June 19.

It means the chances for who will take home the PNC title is now opened for either Fiji or Tonga, who will face each other on Sunday, June 23.

It was Japan's first win in the five-nation tournament after two defeats, leaving the title hopes to Canada on 12 points, Fiji on 11 points and Tonga on 10 points.

Japan’s full back Ayumu Goromaru scored all the points giving his team the 16-13 victory over Canada.

The scorers:

For Japan: Try: Goromaru, Con: Goromaru, Pens: Goromaru 3

For Canada: Try: Hearn, Con: Pritchard, Pens: Pritchard 2

Tongan nun admitted "it was me"

By
Kaniva Staff
-

A Tongan nun, Leva-i-Fangalupe Fono  admitted “it was me” and the court heard that she “yelled at the girl, flicked her in the head and twisted her arm, breaking it, at Sunday School at St Patrick's, Panmure, in April last year”.

Sister Leva maintained her innocent saying she did not assault and intentionally injured the 9 year old girl.  

A Tongan – Otahuhu College teacher Kolotita Taimani, who  witnessed what had happened told the court she knew about the incident when she noticed the girl was crying in one of her Sunday school classes.

When she questioned the girl for what had actually happened,  Sr Leva said “it was me''.

The girl’s parents only knew of their daughter’s injury the following day.

The girlʻs mother said, “We all know when our children are taken to school or if someone is injured at school – whether a little girl or little boy – the parents must be told what happened.

“But when I went to pick up my children no one from the Sunday School came to me, either Sister Leva who caused my little girl to cry – none of them.''

The verdict will be delivered sometimes after the final hearing this Friday

Man axed to death in Vava‘u

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Police in Vava’u, Tonga Island confirmed a 17 year old has died this morning June 18 after he was axed to death by a 27 year old man.

The two men are cousins and according to Radio Tonga reports the 27 year old is a psychotic and was arrested and charged with murder.  

Police responded to a call at 6:00am and found the young man to have died in the scene after an argument between him and his sister who was just arrived home.

The accused, holding an axe in his hands confronted his sister. The sister called the victim for help and in his attempt to take away the axe from the accused he slipped and fell down. The accused immediately struck him three times on his neck and allegedly killed him immediately.  

The accused whose name was not released is in police custody  and appeared today at the Magistrate Court.

In April, Vava’u Police arrested a man in relation to  the death of a young man who died in a machete attack in a village hall in Vava'u. The alleged killer was said to be a psychotic.

Ikale Tahi: ‘Otai optimistic over PNC chances

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Tonga’s National Rugby team’s win over USA Rugby Men's Eagles 18-9 on June 15 in Carson City puts ‘Ikale Tahi on second place in all five-team Pacific Nation Cup.

Canada’s team are in the lead as they still undefeated but Otai told Kaniva News the ‘Ikale Tahi’s performance so far was excellent especially its match against US Men’s Eagles .

“We knew they would hit us with everything they could  in the first half but the boys responded as planned,” adding that they look forward to wining the PNC tournament 2013 despite loss 27-37 to Canada.

Otai thanked all the supports given to the team by Tongans in US and still ask for the same efforts and supports while the team is in Japan to take on Fiji  Sunday, June 23 at the Chichibunomiya Memorial, Tokyo.

Ikale Tahi vs US. Tonga scores:  18 (Sione Piukala 2 tries; Viliami Hakalo conversion, penalty, Nili Latu penalty).

United States scores: 9 (Chris Wyles 3 penalties)

Family of Fungavaka killed by police sues Tonga government

By
Kalino Latu
-

UPDATED: The family of the New Zealand Police Officer who died following arrest and bash by Tongan police officers in Nuku’alofa Central Police Station is filing a civil-rights and wrongful-death lawsuit against the government of Tonga, 3 News reported.  

Kali Fungavaka was in Tonga for a funeral of his grandfather, Kepueli Fungavaka  on August 2012 where he was one of the ball bearers.

On the night of August 17 he was in one of the restaurant bars in Nuku’alofa where he was arrested and allegedly being bashed to death by police officers.

"We are seeking compensation, redress and at least an apology from the Tongan government, and in particular the Tongan police," barrister Kahungunu Barron-Adeaki, SC told 3 News.

According to the News,  “Mr Barron-Afeaki is heading the case on behalf of Mr Fungavaka's children. This morning he phoned the Tongan Police Minister to inform him of the legal action against the police.

“He says the case will focus on emotional harm to Mr Fungavaka's children and loss of income to his family, as a result of his death.

"Changes must be made," says Mr Barron-Adeaki. "A man beaten to death in custody is inexcusable."

Mr Fungavaka’s former partner and their 5 children approached Mr Afeaki wanting to seek compensation from the Tonga government.

"We haven't had an apology from the Tongan police or government as to why their father died in those circumstances, and now I'm left with five children to support, their education, and carry on with life," mother Cally Letalu-Ruahe told 3 News.

"I've had to endure lots of nights where my children have cried endlessly. I've had to be a rock for my children in their time of need now that their father has gone."

An appeal hearing set for June 24 for the Supreme Court to  review a lower court decision discharging three policemen Constable Fatai Faletau, Constable Tevita Vakalahi and Constable Manu Tu’ivai who were previously charged in connection with Fungavaka's death.

Three accused including an inspector and a civilian are to appear in Supreme Court to be tried for the killing of Mr Fungavaka.

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