10 Jun 2016

New king installed in Alo in Wallis and Futuna

3:22 pm on 10 June 2016
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A traditional chieftain's ceremony in Futuna. Photo: AFP

A new king has been installed in Alo on the French Pacific island of Futuna three weeks after Petelo Sea abdicated.

The public broadcaster reports that Filipo Katoa was enthroned in a ceremony attended by dignitaries from throughout the territory.

The new king thanked his predecessor who quit after saying he had lost the backing of his clan.

In February, Petelo Sea received François Hollande, who became the first French president to visit Futuna.

Futuna has two kingdoms recognised by the French republic.

On neighbouring Wallis, the French state last week recognised Patalione Kanimoa as the new king, ending weeks of rivalry between two kings chosen by different sets of chiefs.

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