Tonga prepares for death of king

Tonga’s prime minister made a bedside visit to the elderly and ailing king of the tiny Pacific island nation today, as the country made preparations for the end of one of the world’s longest reigns by any monarch.

Details of the king’s health problems have not been released, but he has struggled with obesity for years and is believed to be suffering heart disease, diabetes and associated ailments. In the past year, the king’s health has confined him mostly to his residence in Auckland, with frequent visits to hospital.