The Ban That Wasn’t

Tonga

TONGA’S ban on the entry of Fiji born Indians later withdrawn in favour of a visa system has been reported as the adoption of a regulation following the exodus of Indians from Fiji.

In fact, however, entry control was im posed more than 100 years ago, said Police Chief Superintendent Sinilau Kolokihak aufisi, with the object of preserving racial harmony and to stimulate Tongans into acquiring the skills and work habits for which Indians are noted.

“The latest restriction and review had come about after immigration authorities had noted that in Late June there were only 441 ethnic Indians residing in the King

dom,” the Chief Superintendent said, “but by July 18 there were 149, not including temporary visitors.”

Under the new regulations, Indians wanting to enter and take up employment in Tonga must be granted visas prior to ar rival. Permanent Indian residents will not be allowed to introduce spouses as per manent residents or relations from abroad, and will not be allowed to bring in substi tutes for family or community members who have died or left the Kingdom. Fam ily members of “entourages” will be obliged to leave upon reaching the age of 21 years, but part-Tongan children will be able to apply for Tongan citizenship. □