Tonga says it has no money for flood relief

TONGA – Tonga’s prime minister says there is not much the government can do to help victims of recent flooding because it has no money.

The main island, Tongatapu, experienced record rainfall last week which has flooded parts of the capital, Nuku’alofa.

In parliament yesterday, prime minister ‘Akilisi Pohiva expressed concern about the living conditions people in flooded low-lying areas were facing.

However, he said there was little assistance the government could offer because the government didn’t have the money.

Matangi Tonga reports the comments sparked a loud exchange in the house, with Pohiva questioned on why there was no emergency fund.

Pohiva said the government would be able to provide for pumps, but there was no funding for a permanent solution.

- RNZI