Cooks election gives Democratic party majority

Saturday, 7 October 2006, 2:30 am
Press Release: Radio New Zealand International

Cooks election gives Democratic party majority

The final results of the Cook Islands general election have been released with Dr Terepai Maoate’s Democratic Party confirmed the winner with 14 of the 24 parliamentary seats.

The Cook Islands Party has eight seats, with one independent and one seat tied.

Elma MaUa reports

“The Demo Party now forms a majority government and according to the country’s constitution, parliament will rise within ninety days, pending any challenges which must be presented within the next seven days. Since last week’s preliminary results CIP have lost Matavera, while the Akaoa constiuency is now tied, with a judicial recount set for Monday. The Demo leader Dr Terepai Maoate says they are ready to start work.”

“To keep to our promises with political reform, because we have been determined to do this but we’ve never been in a position to enforce it or take it parliament for that matter.”

Meanwhile, the leader of the Cook Islands Party Henry Puna says the electoral process is far from over and they’re reviewing their options."

© Scoop Media

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