STANLEY Sofu continues to maintain his grip on the East Kwaio seat in Malaita – winning by a landslide to claim his third term in parliament.
Contesting as an independent, Mr Sofu polled 2,748, well ahead of his runner up Alfred Sasako, who polled just 988.
The other candidates are Diki Kolosu with 501 votes, John Taniamae 472 votes, Robert Firigeni 418 votes, Simon Baete 227 votes, Wilfred Mete 117 votes, Joseph Shem Bibiasi 101 votes, Genesis Eddie Kofana 76 votes, Joseph Festus Isafi 74 votes, Herikdun Bubunaia Siope 72 votes and Jimmy Masa with 29 votes.
Assistant returning officer (ARO) Ronnie Butala said polling day in East Kwaio was peaceful and calm.
“There’s no disturbance. More than 90 per cent of people turnout to cast their votes which was really good and it’s a successful polling day in the constituency.”
Mr Butala thanked East Kwaio people for making the polling day a success and peaceful.
Mr Sofu has been the MP for East Kwaio since 2006.
Counting for other constituencies in Malaita continues today.
By STEPHEN DI’ISANGO
in Auki
