5 Jul 2010

Futuna's Sigave has new king

1:21 pm on 5 July 2010

The island of Futuna has a new King.

71-year-old Polikalepo Kolivai, who is a traditional chief, was crowned king of Sigave during a traditional ceremony following his designation by the district council of chiefs.

According to Oceania Flash, his appointment by the council of chiefs has sparked criticism from at least two rival clans on the island, which say they were not consulted and that the right procedure had not been respected.

They say therefore they won't recognise the new King.

Although itself a republic, France recognises the three kingdoms of Wallis, Alo and Sigave and grants them some influence on local matters.