Cook Islands opposition leader Teina Bishop. Photo: Phillipa Webb / Cook Islands News
The Cook Islands opposition says it will respect the decision of the Queen's Representative, who issued a legal opinion that its attempt to remove the government was illegal.
On Monday, the opposition used what it considered an error by the Speaker of Parliament to stage a vote of no confidence, aiming to replace prime minister Henry Puna.
The opposition claimed the speaker, Nikki Rattle, had failed to properly adjourn the session, leaving parliament still in session.
But the Queen's Representative, Tom Marsters, agreed with the government which had earlier called the opposition move a farce.
The opposition leader, Teina Bishop, said his MPs would respect the vice regal decision.
"I was in front of the Queen's Representative yesterday. I did indicate to him I would respect his decision but we will not agree with it," said Mr Bishop.
