Polikalepo Kolivai, 71, was crowned king of Sigave during a traditional ceremony following his designation by the district council of chiefs, Radio New Zealand International reports from the French Pacific territory (collectivité d'outre-mer) Wallis et Futuna.
Polikalepo Kolivai's appointment is said to be contested by at least two rival clans on the island of Futuna. The clans claim they were not consulted and therefore will not recgonize the new king. The throne of Sigave had been vacant since the previous king Visesio Moeliku stepped down last year August.
Although the islands of Wallis and Futuna are part of the French republic and are administrated by a French official (the governor of New Caledonia), the three indigeneous kingdoms Uvea (king Kapeliele Faupala, since 2008), Tu'a (or Alo, also on Futuna; throne vacant since Petelo Vikena stepped down in January 2010) and Sigave are recognized and have a say on local matters. © GPD
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