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Saturday, 18 November 2006, 05:30 GMT

In pictures: Tonga riots aftermath

A man walks past burning vehicles in Nuku'alofa. Picture: 17 November 2006

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The government of Tonga has declared a state of emergency, following riots in the capital, Nuku'alofa, that left eight people dead.

Protesters in Nuku'alofa. Picture: 17 November 2006

Protesters in Nuku'alofa. Picture: 17 November 2006

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The violence broke out when the Pacific kingdom's parliament failed to vote on democratic reforms on Thursday. Small protests continued on Friday.

A burning car in Nuku'alofa. Picture: 17 November 2007

A burning car in Nuku'alofa. Picture: 17 November 2007

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Protesters torched and looted buildings and shops and set cars on fire in the city's main business district.

A gutted building in Nuku'alofa

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Some 80% of the buildings in the area had been destroyed, officials said. Eight bodies were found in the debris.

Tonga's government offices burn in Nuku'alofa on 16 November 2006

Tonga's government offices burn in Nuku'alofa on 16 November 2006

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The government later agreed to hold elections in 2008 in which a majority of lawmakers would be directly elected. Currently, nobles and appointees outnumber elected MPs.

An overturned car in Nuku'alofa. Picture: 17 November 2006

An overturned car in Nuku'alofa. Picture: 17 November 2006

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The government has asked Australia and New Zealand to send in troops to help restore order.

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Related to this story:
Six found dead after Tonga riots (17 Nov 06 | Asia-Pacific )