His Majesty King Siaosi Tāufaʻāhau Manumataongo Tukuʻaho (George) Tupou V of Tonga has died in Hong Kong on Sunday.  The newspaper, Matangi Tonga Online who broke the story, claims His Majesty “… was rushed to hospital early this afternoon but it is understood that he had passed away a few hours later.”

According to AFP News there has been no confirmation or comments from “…Tongan authorities nor palace officials…” at this hour.   However, a “…statement was expected following Monday’s cabinet meeting.”

The last major public appearance by His Majesty was on February 24, 2012, when he met with His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican.  Click here to watch a view news report about his visit.

To read the original report about His Majesty’s passing from Matangi Tonga Online please click here.

UPDATE:

The prime minister of Tonga, Lord Siale’ataonga Tu’ivakano, has officially confirmed the death of His Majesty King Siaosi Tāufaʻāhau Manumataongo Tukuʻaho (George) Tupou V.  The king died in a Hong Kong hospital with His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupouto’a Lavaka by his bedside.  

Click here for more information.

A 2011 Interview with King Siaosi (George) Tupou V of Tonga

Sources: AFP News and MTO