Nauru’s government has defended the suspension of three opposition MPs from Parliament over critical comments to foreign media and accused one of attempting to incite a riot.

Justice Minister David Adeang said the three MPs were suspended for intending to "inflict maximum damage to Nauru’s reputation".

Recently suspended Nauru MP Dr Kieren Keke with Tony Abbott and Scott Morrison in 2011. Credit:Brad Hunter

The trio have been critical about government actions in recent months, including the deportation of the chief magistrate in January and a subsequent decision by Bendigo Bank not to establish a branch on the island.