MEMBERS and staff of the Legislative Assembly today wear red to show unity and support of the ‘Ikale Tahi team.
This came when the Speaker of the House Lord Lasike yesterday gave the green light for Parliament to host a luncheon program for the national rugby players today here in Parliament.
The move was initiated when the Honourable Prime Minister Lord Tu’ivakano informed parliamentarians and the public that talks with the Tonga Rugby Union Board was successful in getting the former 2007 World Cup Captain Nili Latu into the ‘Ikale Tahi team non travelling reserves.
Break away Latu was dropped from the initial team when it was officially announced on Tuesday, August 23rd.
The People’s Representatives especially advocated that majority of the people wanted Latu to include him in the team that will play against the All Blacks in the opening game on September 9th in New Zealand.
However after some heated discussion in Parliament on the issue, MPs put aside their differences to lend their support and unity towards the ‘Ikale Tahi.
In doing so, the Speaker of the House, Lord Lasike wore red when the House resumed after lunch yesterday. Tongatapu 1 MP, ‘Akilisi Pohiva has gone out of his way to wear a complete ‘Ikale Tahi rugby jersey outfit just to show his support of the team.
At the same time, MPs are also invited to join hands with the people on Saturday in a fund raising drive to help the team.
Parliamentarians are also invited to an evening prayer service especially dedicated for the national rugby team on Sunday.