Sir Mekere Morauta was officially declared member elect for Moresby North West at 12pm today at the Rita Flynn counting centre by Returning Officer, Bale Kavanamur.
Sir Mekere Morauta accompanied by lady Roselyn Morauta arrived at the Rita Flynn counting centre awaiting his declarations this morning.
Morauta polled 14,007 after elimination of Honk Kiap, the candidate with box number 39. This came about when Kiap’s second preference votes of 4, 877 were distributed and counted.
He collected 1,106 on top of his previous count of 12, 901 to exceed the absolute majority, 12, 918 and won the race ahead of independent candidate Lohia Bohe Samuel who polled second with 10, 468 votes.
Speaking during his declaration Sir Mekere thanked the people of Moresby North West for giving him the mandate as their leader.
Sir Mekere reclaimed the seat that he had vacated in 2012 after his unconditional stand down from politics. Speaking during his declaration, he as unfinished business.
Sir Mekere said he has come back because he is worried about the Papua New Guinea that he once help to build during his leadership. He reiterated strongly to work with young and like-minded to install quality government leaders that will serve the people.
He will now serve his third term in Parliament.
