THE coronation of Tonga's King George Tupou V has been postponed for 12 months, following the destruction of central Nuku'alofa by riot and fires on November 16.

The coronation is now set for August 1, 2008, a year later than originally planned, the Prime Minister's Office, in Nuku'alofa confirmed today.

Paula Ma'u the Deputy Secretary of the Prime Minister's Office said today that due to the aftermath of November 16 and Government's planned reconstruction of the capital Nuku'alofa, the Tongan Cabinet had decided that it was best to postpone the coronation, a major ceremonial event.

Paula said the reconstruction of Nuku'alofa would be taking place during the next two years or so. "The delay of the coronation will allow the Tongan cabinet to focus entirely on the reconstruction work of our capital given that their first priority is to maintain public order in the country."

King George Tupou V ascended to the Tongan throne on September 11 following the death of his father King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV.