A Tongan pastor says the coronation of King Tupou VI in July will be different from previous such events because the country has a more democratically elected parliament.
The King, who replaces his late brother George Tupou V, will be formally crowned on July the 4th at the Pangai Lahi field and the Royal Palace compound.
Heads of government from around the world are expected to attend, as well as many Tongan expatriates.
Reverend Simote Vea says most people in his generation have seen three coronations in their lifetimes but this year's coronation will see more commoners participating rather than watching from the sidelines.
"It's a new coronation in the sense that it's a new era now that we have more democratically elected government and the government is prepared to host an exciting event meaning that it's the people who are involved in government now."
King Tupou VI of Tonga speaks at the 68th United Nations General Assembly in September 2013 in New York. Photo: AFP
