A group of chiefs in Wallis and Futuna says it wants to install a new king at the end of next week.
This comes amid a protracted stand-off with the 87-year-old king, Tomasi Kulimoetoke, who has challenged the French presence in the territory.
Local television reports that a ceremonial meeting was held to usher in the elevation of a high chief, Sosefo Mautamakia, to become the traditional king.
The territory has seen a rivalry between clans triggered by the king's initial refusal to hand over a grandson to the police for causing a fatal accident.
