A king’s legacy in London. This plaque commemorates King George Tupou V of Tonga. It stands here in Cleveland Square. This is where he lived and studied between 1963 and 1970.
King George Tupou V was born on May 4, 1948. He passed away in March 2012. He was known as a reformer, a traveller and an anglophile. He embraced British culture.
He received his education at King’s School and King’s College in Auckland. He also attended The Leys School in Cambridge. Plus, he studied at Oxford University and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. His time in England shaped his views.
He ascended the throne in 2006. King George Tupou V initiated significant reforms in Tonga. A key reform was relinquishing much of the monarch’s power. He shifted towards a more democratic system. The Prime Minister began guiding most matters.
The first election under the new system occurred in 2010. This marked a major turning point for Tonga. It reflected King George Tupou V’s commitment to his people.
The erection of the King George Tupou V Plaque took place on November 25, 2013. Some speculate it was linked to a deal involving Tonga’s currency printing business with De La Rue.
King Tupou VI also attended the unveiling. He shared tea with the Duke of Gloucester. The Duke reminisced about Queen Salote. He recalled her cheerful presence at the 1953 Coronation.
King George Tupou V’s reign was relatively short. He ruled for five years and 189 days. Despite its brevity, his impact was profound. He set Tonga on a path toward democracy.
King George Tupou V passed away in a Hong Kong hospital. He was 63 years old. His death prompted condolences from around the world. Queen Elizabeth II called him a true statesman.
King Harald V of Norway expressed sympathy to the new King. New Zealand’s Prime Minister John Key saw him as an architect of democracy. President Barack Obama mourned the loss of a visionary leader.
His funeral was a major event. Dignitaries from various nations attended. Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, represented the British Royal Family.
King George Tupou V left behind a daughter. Her name was ‘Ilima Lei Fifita Tohi. She was born in 1974. However, she was ineligible to inherit the throne.
King George Tupou V received numerous honours. These included titles from Tonga and abroad. He was an Officer of the Order of the Legion of Honour of France. He also received the Grand Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit.
This King George Tupou V Plaque serves as a reminder. It commemorates a Tongan king who embraced change. He lived and studied in this very square. It is a fitting tribute to his legacy.