The king, who studied at King’s College in Auckland, New Zealand, and in
Britain, is credited with championing a more open system of government,
advocating technological improvements and introducing a more open economy in
the kingdom.
He will be remembered by many for his throwback fashion choices – which
included wearing, at times, a top hat and even a monocle.
New Zealand’s Prime Minister John Key released a statement on Monday saying
that his thoughts were with the people of Tonga.
“I would like to acknowledge the very valuable contribution the king has
made in steering Tonga towards democracy and hope this work will continue,”
Key said. “He believed that the monarchy was an instrument of change
and can truly be seen as the architect of evolving democracy in Tonga. This
will be his enduring legacy.”
Mr Fonua said the king gave up most of his executive powers when he came to
the throne, accepting the need for a more democratic system. Fonua said the
king also championed technologies such as mobile phones and the internet,
and made some enemies among conservative Tongans for his efforts to make the
economy more market-driven.