Race tightens in Dei Open as counting enters critical stage

Counting in the Dei Open by-election has intensified, with the race now officially described as too close to call following the 20th elimination this afternoon.

The elimination of Independent candidate Westly Nukundi Nukundj, who exited the race with 10,671 votes at 5:33pm, has left a narrow field of five candidates locked in a high-stakes contest for the seat.

Independent candidate Tui Ekil currently leads the tally with 18,744 votes, holding a razor-thin lead over Sam Koim, who follows closely in second place with 18,490 votes - a difference of just 254.

Desmond Paul Kipa remains a strong contender in third place with 17,234 votes, while James Memba Weiya holds fourth position with 15,126 votes.

Rounding out the top five is Independent candidate James Pini, who sits in fifth place with 14,355 votes.

The absolute majority now stands at 42,076 votes.

Counting was suspended for the evening and is scheduled to resume Wednesday morning, beginning with the exclusion of Pini.

Returning Officer Baffic Rasowe, while addressing counting officials, scrutineers, security personnel, and media before the suspension, noted that the process is reaching its most sensitive phase. He urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and alert when counting resumes.

Rasowe added that the deadline for the Return of Writs is rapidly approaching, and the count must be finalized to meet the constitutional requirements.

The writ for the Dei Open by-election is scheduled to be returned on February 20, as the district nears the finish line in determining its new Member of Parliament.