PNG: Independent Kipa Declared Dei MP After Weeks of Intense Counting

PNG: Independent Kipa Declared Dei MP After Weeks of Intense Counting

A tense finish to the Dei Open by-election in PNG saw Independent candidate Desmond Paul Kipa emerge victorious after securing a narrow lead over rival Sam Koim in the final count.

The decisive moment came during the last elimination when Tui Ekil was excluded with 22,722 votes, allowing preferences to be distributed among the remaining candidates.

Kipa eventually polled 28,064 votes compared to Koim’s 27,146 votes, surpassing him by just 918 votes in one of the closest contests in the electorate.

Election authorities confirmed that the winning total also placed Kipa above the absolute majority mark of 27,606 votes required under the Limited Preferential Voting system.

The final result concluded weeks of rigorous counting that saw fluctuating tallies and sustained tension among candidates and supporters at the counting centre.

During his declaration speech, Kipa expressed gratitude to God for sustaining him through what he described as a long and difficult political journey and thanked supporters across Dei, including his parents and family, for their prayers and support.

He also acknowledged the work of election officials, counting staff and security personnel for maintaining order and transparency, while commending Sam Koim for his strong performance in his first contest for the seat.

After officially signing the writs at around 7pm in the presence of the Returning Officer and supporters, Kipa dedicated his victory to God and the people of Dei District, stating that he is committed to serving the electorate and delivering much-needed development over the next 14 months until the 2027 National General Elections.

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