8 Aug 2006

Cooks Democratic Party gears up for next election

6:23 pm on 8 August 2006

The deputy leader of Democratic Party in the Cook Islands, Tepure Taaitau, says the party is working hard to prepare for next month's elections and not worried about the possibility of leadership change.

Local reports say Dr Terepai Maoate had thought of retiring altogether, but that he had come under pressure to remain as party leader even if he made a decision to not stand as an MP.

Mr Tapaitau says he has been working closely with Dr Maoate to select the best candidates with the right qualities for the next election.

When it comes to the future, Mr Tapaitau says the Democratic Party is just as prepared for change as any other party.

"I think the party has plans and any organisation would have plans for substitute and for people fitting into the shoes of others as they move out."

The deputy leader of Democratic Party in the Cook Islands, Tepure Tapaitau