There is an uproar among the staff of French Polynesia's territorial assembly just months out from the elections.
About 60 employees have signed an open letter, complaining of harassment and demanding the sacking of the chief of staff of the assembly president.
They also demand the immediate dismissal of two top officials who have recently been chosen by the assembly president Marcel Tuihani.
The letter, which is addressed to the assembly members, says they are being bullied and humiliated on a daily basis.
They say they are neither dogs nor spoiled children but conscientious officials serving the public interest.
Mr Tuihani was a former top politician of the Gaston Flosse-led Tahoeraa Huiraatira Party but left it last year.
He wants to run for an assembly this year as the leader of a new party Te Ora Api no Porinetia.
Open letter from staff at French Polynesia assembly Photo: supplied