At exactly around 4pm this afternoon, Mr. Didymus Kisso Napto was officially declared the Member-elect for Nissan Constituency, successfully retaining his seat. He was declared by the North Regional Returning Officer Mr. Gary Kenehe. Mr. Napto secured victory after the second exclusion, polling a total of 1,758 votes, surpassing the absolute majority of 1,715. The exclusion of Candidate Ephrem Samuel saw 364 votes distributed, with Julian Tombola Lamasam (1,047) and John Paul Toll (623) following behind. The formal declaration confirms Mr. Napto’s return to Parliament as the incumbent, reaffirming the people’s confidence in his leadership. Also, in North Bougainville earlier today Mr. David Braun Vatavi was declared the Member-elect for Taonita Tinputz Constituency. Vatavi was declared after the 12th exclusion, which saw sitting member Morris Opeti eliminated with 985 votes. Mr. Vatavi secured a final progressive total of 1,784 votes, surpassing the absolute majority of 1,601, ahead of Dyson Kaetavara who finished with 1,416 votes. The people of Taonita Tinputz Constituency now have a new leader.