The Cook Islands Democratic Party leader says the death of one of its MPs has left a gap in the party.
The member for Ivirua, Tony Armstrong, died last Thursday and his funeral was held in Rarotonga over the weekend.
Tony Armstrong with wife Agnes and daughter during his swearing in as an MP, 19 Sept 2018. Photo: Facebook / Radio Cook Islands
Tina Browne said Mr Armstrong's passing is a big loss for the Democratic Party.
"Tony has been a strong influence on not only for his constituency but also as a member of the Democratic Party.
"He quickly demonstrated his ability to lead and it was just so sad that his life was shortened in the way that it was."
The Speaker of the House has yet to declare a by-election for Ivirua, she added.