Six bodies have been found amidst debris left by rioting in Nuku'alofa, capital of the Pacific nation of Tonga.
The riots caused considerable damage in Nuku'alofa
Hundreds of youths destroyed buildings and looted shops on Thursday, in protests sparked by government delays in implementing democratic reforms.
The government has now said new elections will be held in 2008 to elect a more democratic parliament.
Tonga is poised to request up to 200 troops from Australia and New Zealand to help protect key buildings.
"We are now working on the details of an agreement to allow personnel from New Zealand and Australia to secure the airport" and other strategic sites, said Lopeti Senituli, a spokesman for Prime Minister Fred Sevele.
Air New Zealand cancelled flights to Tonga for a second day on Friday.
Police said that more bodies might be found, as debris was cleared from damaged buildings.
The six dead were believed to have been rioters.
Arson was widespread through the capital
"We are waiting for DNA tests to confirm as the bodies are beyond recognition," said assistant police commissioner Unca Faaoa.
Up to 80% of buildings in Nuku'alofa were estimated to have been destroyed, including the government and prime minister's offices, the power company, Nuku'alofa's only bank and a number of Chinese-owned shops.
The South Pacific nation's king appoints 10 of the 14 cabinet members to their posts for life, with the other four reserved for "nobility".
Hereditary noblemen hold the majority of seats in the country's parliament.
After the death of King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV in September, a government committee recommended that that all lawmakers be elected by the public.
King Tupou IV reigned for 41 years and was opposed to reforms.
His son and heir, Siaosi Tupou V, is thought to be more in favour of change.