8 Jan 2010

Cooks sacked deputy PM mum about next move

4:02 pm on 8 January 2010

The sacked deputy prime minister of the Cook Islands, Sir Terepai Maoate, has declined to comment about his plans since his dumping before Christmas.

Sir Terepai was sacked by the Prime Minister Jim Marurai for alleged mismanagement of a failed tank farm deal.

Several cabinet ministers, who are also members of the Democratic Party, then resigned in support of Sir Terepai, leaving the ruling party divided.

The Prime Minister assigned portfolios to newly sworn-in ministers this week, saying he has confidence in his new look cabinet.

Mr Marurai says he's also had an unsuccessful meeting with members of the opposition Cook Islands Party, who are calling for early elections.