Hon. Prime Minister of Tonga Dr. Feleti Sevele was at Mercy Hospital immediately at midnight on 11 September 2006. The death of HM King Tupou IV just before Midinight allowed the Royal Family and Prime Minister to share some quiet moments of sorrow, before, the departure of the Prime Minister for Tonga. Early on 11 September morning the Deputy Prime Minister officially released on air in Tonga the death of the King Tupou IV.

Private Secretary Hon. Ma'afu, Minister's of the Crown, Nobles of the Realm and the Prince Regent made an oath of alligiance to the new King George Tupou V. HRH Crown Prince Tupouto'a assumes Head of State as King George Tupou V, in accordance with the written constitution.

HM the late King Tupou IV will lie in state in New Zealand briefly prior to returning to Tonga. Before the end of the week the RNZAF will return King Tupou IV to Tonga with the royal family on board, accompanied by Lauaki, the chiefly undertaker matapule in attendance to the King. Lauaki will perform ancient roles that is maintained by the nima tapu, in the duration of the tapu. As ancient traditions allows, the nima tapu perform duties to the sacred king exercised wih care and respect, Lauaki carries the fue and tokotoko in his performance of  duties.

Members of the nobility will meet tommorrow and confirm the anticipated tasks they will perform in line with governments policies. It is anticipated a week long lie in state will commence on arrival in Tonga, middle of the week, with burial the following week.

As a young prince he was easily spotted for his physical attributes, he was stronger and built solidly then his age group. He competed as a scholar, rowed, played rugby, and was immensely gifted. He was very respectful of others and led bravely, had he been a few hundred years earlier, he would have been a warlord! But, he prayed in earnest and consistently read the bible and attended the Weslyan Church. As first Tongan graduate he led by example. Alas, our dear king has gone, leaving footsteps for us to follow and marvel at for he achieved with distinction!

 

Master of the Royal Household.