KEY POINTS:
The coronation of Tonga's new King has been postponed because of riots in November, it was reported today.
The Matangi Tonga On-line website said the coronation of King Siaosi Tupou V had been put off until August 1, 2008.
The pro-democracy rampage on November 16, which business owners said was manipulated to target business and political rivals, destroyed central Nuku'alofa, and left seven people dead. Damage to the capital was extensive and buildings were razed in arson attacks.
Deputy Secretary of the Prime Minister's Office Paula Ma'u said the Tongan Cabinet said work to reconstruct the capital Nuku'alofa would take some time.
"The delay of the coronation will allow the Tongan cabinet to focus entirely on the reconstruction work of our capital given that their first priority is to maintain public order in the country."
The coronation would now be held a year later than originally planned.
King Siaosi Tupou V ascended to the Tongan throne on September 11 following the death of his father King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV.
- NZPA
