The Prime Minister of Tonga says the issue of ratifying a United Nations Convention which recently led to protests in the country, will be put to the public, after the coronation celebrations end.
Tongan women protest against the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, arguing it includes counter-culture clauses such as same sex marriage and abortion. Photo: Broadcomfm Broadcasting / Facebook
Cabinet announced earlier this year its intention to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination against Women, or CEDAW.
Multiple petitions and marches followed the announcement including a parliamentary resolution asking the government not to ratify CEDAW.
Opponents have expressed concern that it will allow same sex marriage and abortion.
The Privy Council recently told the Government to reconsider its decision.
'Akilisi Pohiva, who supports CEDAW, says the decision is up to the people.
"It is a matter for the people to decide and since the public is split, there's a split amongst the people of the country, I think the best thing to do is to give it to the public to make the decision."