Honiara's new city mayor calls for cooperation

Honiara City has a new Lord mayor. He is Andrew Mua, councilor for Ngossi ward, West Honiara constituency.

Mr Mua polled 12 votes ahead of his only rival Dwene Tigulu who polled 4. Yesterday's vote follows last week's postponement on legal grounds.

Former City Lord Mayor, Alfred Maetia was ousted in a successful no confidence vote earlier this month. Appointed members of the council were able to cast their votes at yesterday's election of a new mayor after a second gazatted order from the minister of Home Affairs.

The Second gazette also provides a process in the event of a tie in voting. Only 16 of the 20 elected and appointed councilors took part in today's vote.

Meanwhile, newly elected mayor of Honiara City Andrew Mua appealed for cooperation during the tenure of his leadership.

In his inaugural speech after his election, Mr Mua said that he needs the cooperative efforts and support from other eleven Honiara City Councilors and the population of Honiara.

He said leadership cannot be solely borne by the City mayor and his executive but through the support of all.

Mr Mua said his government will attempt to make improvements to Honiara feeder roads, improve in the efforts to clean up Honiara, and the health and education services.

The new mayor will announce his executive today.

Source: SIBC