Hon. Sagupari elected the new Premier of CIP

By Alfred Pagepitu

The Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) for Ward 2 in Central West Ngella, Hon. Kenneth Sagupari, has been elected as the new Premier of Central Islands Province (CIP).

He won the election this afternoon in Tulagi, receiving 8 votes compared to 4 votes for his rival candidate, Hon. David Manetiva. One ballot paper was deemed invalid.

Speaker of the Central Islands Provincial Assembly, Hon. Francis Moah, confirmed the results to SIBC News.

He stated that the vote signifies the successful conclusion of the election process that began with a motion earlier this month.

“Hon. Kenneth Sagupari received 8 votes, while Hon. David Manetiva received 4 votes. One ballot paper was spoiled. Therefore, I declare Hon. Sagupari as the newly elected Premier,” Speaker Moah said.

A total of 13 MPAs participated in the election.

Speaker Moah also commended the peaceful conduct of the election and expressed gratitude to all Members of the Assembly and the residents of Central Islands Province.

“Once the new Premier settles in, he is expected to announce his team of ministers, and work will commence once portfolios are assigned,” he added.

This election comes after a recent motion of no confidence removed the previous Premier, leading to the vacancy that was filled today.

ENDS//