Independent PRs nominate Samiu Vaipulu for PM [1]
Tuesday, December 16, 2014 - 17:22. Updated on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 - 16:01.
The Nobles Representatives withdrew their nomination of Lord Vaea for Prime Minister, and the independent People's Representatives nominated Samiu Vaipulu for Prime Minister when the two groups of newly-elected Members of Parliament met last night, Monday 15 December.
‘Etuate Lavulavu the spokesperson for the seven independent People’s Representatives told Matangi Tonga this afternoon that the nobles had given their support to the independent PR's nominee, but negotiation was ongoing. He said that they would meet with members of the Democratic Party of the Friendly Islands later today.
'Etuate said they were happy with the nobles show of support and looked forward to further discussions before Parliament holds a secret ballot to choose the next Prime Minister.
Nomination closing
By 23 December, all nominations for Prime Minister should be submitted to the Interim Speaker Lord Tupou.
Within three-days from 23 December, the Interim Speaker will call a meeting of all 26 elected Members of Parliament, where a secret ballot to elect a Prime Minister Designate will be held.
The person who gets more than half of the votes becomes the Prime Minister designate.
The first available date for the secret ballot is Christmas Eve, 24 December.