NAURU PRESIDENT STEPHEN RETAINS POWER

PACIFIC ISLANDS REPORT

Pacific Islands Development Program/East-West Center
With Support From Center for Pacific Islands Studies/University of Hawai‘i

NAURU PRESIDENT STEPHEN RETAINS POWER
Preliminary results indicate re-election

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (Radio New Zealand International, April 27, 2008) – Provisional results indicate the Marcus Stephen-led government has been returned to power with an increased majority in Nauru.

After a snap weekend election, it appears Mr Stephen can expect a majority of at least 10 members in the 18 seat parliament.

The increased number of seats should end two months of political deadlock that has severely hampered the passing of essential budgetary bills in the cash-strapped nation.

[PIR editor’s note: An attempt to unseat Stephen in March by a vote of no confidence was thwarted.]

The support for the government saw former president Rene Harris and two other opposition members lose their seats.

All government MPs retained their seats in what Justice Minister Mathew Batsiua described as a resounding victory.

Parliament is now expected to sit tomorrow when the final make-up of the house will be determined.

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