by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer
Taneti Maamau has been re-elected as the President of Kiribati for a third term.
The citizens of Kiribati voted on Friday in the presidential elections, choosing from three candidates: Maamau, who has served for the past eight years, along with Bauntaake Beia and Kaotitaake Kokoria.
However, there was a twist when Kokoria separated from the ruling Tobwaan Kiribati Party (TKP) to create his own coalition.
According to New Zealand’s High Commissioner in Kiribati, Maamau secured approximately 55 percent of the votes, while Kokoria received 42 percent.
The chief justice of Kiribati, Tetiro Semilota, announced Maamau as the winner and extended his congratulations.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was the first Pacific leader to commend Maamau.
“Warm congratulations to President Maamau on the Kiribati election results,” he posted on X.
“We anticipate collaborating with the Government of Kiribati to achieve our common goals,” he added.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters also congratulated Maamau on X.
“Best wishes to President Maamau on your re-election. We look forward to continuing to strengthen the close relationship between Kiribati and New Zealand.”
Ruth Cross Kwansing, a first-time MP from Kiribati who was elected as an independent in August but has since joined Maamau, also congratulated him on his re-election.
“May God continue to bless and guide your leadership and our TKP Family as we serve abara Kiribati!” she posted on Facebook.
