King Tupou VI with Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku and his team in Niua last Wednesday. Photo: Dr Viliame Latu
A long-time campaigner for democracy in Tonga says the involvement in the government by King Tupou VI is a return to the 'dark ages' for the Kingdom.
The King recently withdrew his support for the Ministers holding two portfolios.
Tonga's Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni has now reportedly stepped down from his defence portfolio, with Foreign Affairs Minister Fekita 'Utoi-kamanu reportedly doing the same.
Sources in Nuku'alofa have told RNZ Pacific the reported decision to resign comes following a meeting between Hua'kavameiliku and a Cabinet team held with King Tupou VI earlier this month.
Kalafi Moala told RNZ Pacific's Don Wiseman the King's decision to withdraw support is a retrograde step.
