Round one election results in Kiribati have delivered a repeat term for some, a new political life for others, and a farewell for those who've lost out and didnt make the shortlist for next weeks second round.
Almost 45 thousand voters were on the Kiribati electoral roll for the 2020 elections.
Voters check in before heading to the booths to their right at the Tangintebu Theological College Maneaba Photo: L.Uan
This week across Kiribati, just over 34,00 thousand valid round one votes proved Covid 19 fears could not stop citizens exercising their right to vote.
The round one results allow those candidates with a clear majority in their electorate to be confirmed, returning a number of MPs for another term.
Amongst them, four ministers in the last government.
Alex Teabo, Ruateki Tekauara, Willie Tokataake and James Toum will be part of the next Kiribati parliament while other ministers Tetabo Nakara and Kabebe Taitai didnt make the cut to get to round two.
Two women join the early wins this week. Longtime former Vice President Teima Onorio and newcomer Tessie Lambourne had decisive wins. They may be joined by a few more women after next weeks results.