15 Apr 2014

Lobbying for support in Niue to determine next Premier

2:20 pm on 15 April 2014

The top two pollers in the common roll in Niue are lobbying for support to determine who will become the next Premier.

The premier since 2008, Toke Talagi, came second to businessman Stanley Kalauni in the common roll stakes in last weekend's general election.

Leilani Momoisea reports.

"Those on Niue say it could be a very close race, with support for Toke Talagi and Stanley Kalauni appearing to be split down the middle. Mr Kalauni says a few people have indicated their support for him and asked him to put his hand up to be Premier. He says he is having a number of meetings this afternoon to determine what level of support he has.

However, Tuapa village seat winner, Fisa Pihigia, says he supports Mr Talagi and expects him to have the numbers to continue as Premier. The balance of power may be decided by whoever wins the Toi village seat, which was a draw.

The successful candidate for Toi is expected to be known later this afternoon, when straws are to be drawn to determine the winner."