New faces to lead the CIP into the elections
Henry Puna is elected CIP Leader on second ballot and his deputy is Tupou Faireka.
Henry Puna has been elected as Leader of the Cook Islands Party on Friday 2 September 2006, the final day of the Cook Islands Party’s conference held at the Mitiaro Hostel. He succeeds Sir Geoffrey Henry KBE who retires after 25 years as Leader of the Party.
Puna, the MP for Manihiki and former President of the CIP, is only the third leader the party has had in its 42 year history after Sir Geoffrey and Papa Albert Henry. Puna beat off four others for the top job. Tupapa MP Tupou Faireka who featured in the final run off with Puna for the leadership, beat off four others for the position of Deputy Leader.
The selection process began at 1.30pm with the voting for positions of Office Bearers.(See separate list).
The process was preceded by a short speech from Sir Geoffrey Henry in which he thanked the members for the last 25 years. At that point a very strong gust of wind blew through the hall scattering papers. In reply, President Rau Nga told Sir Geoffrey it was not “goodbye” but “thank you” Sir Geoffrey for a job well done. After being selected as Vice President for a further term and surviving two challengers, Nick Henry said it was an exciting time but also a sad and emotional time farewelling Sir Geoffrey. He said the party now had to look forward. He said its solidarity and unity were reasons why Norman George and former Prime Minister Dr Robert Woonton had joined the CIP. Indeed it was a surprisingly slimmer Woonton who had been accepted as a member of the CIP and made a delegate for Penrhyn. They were comfortable with the depth and experience in the party. To whoever the new leaders were, Nick Henry advised they be humble in their success, humble in their victory.
In his victory speech, Henry Puna said it was a new team, with a new direction and a new challenge. It made him so happy. He said the mood was very positive, very vibrant and he congratulated the new executive whom he said were entering a life of loyalty. He was so proud to be leading such a diverse and capable team. He said it was time for a new beginning and they needed to be respectful of the past. The team would not shy away from challenges of the future said Puna. Puna then declared the CIP’s election campaign open. He went on to issue Dr Maoate a stern challenge over the upcoming elections. It was time for new energy, new vision and with this team, time to restore respect in politicians. “No more excuses,” said Puna, “God bless us all.” Puna introduced each of the candidates and spoke briefly about each. The loudest cheers and ovation was accorded Norman George.

– Charles Pitt

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