PNG Dei By-Election: Koim Edges Ahead

A late surge in Papua New Guinea’s Dei By-Election has seen Sam Koim edge ahead of long-time leader Tui Ekil after a crucial round of eliminations during vote counting.

The turning point unfolded during the 21st elimination, where candidate James Pini exited the contest with 14,355 votes, and the distribution of his preferences significantly influenced the race’s direction.

Ekil, who had been the frontrunner since counting began, has now slipped into second place as Koim capitalised on the redistributed votes to claim the top position.

Updated figures show Koim leading the field with 21,994 votes, closely trailed by Ekil on 21,550 votes, setting up a tightly contested finish.

Meanwhile, Desmond Paul Kipa continues to hold third place with 19,803 votes, while James Memba Weiya sits in fourth position on 15,967 votes.

Officials have indicated that the absolute majority currently stands at 39,658 votes as the elimination process continues.

Counting officials suspended the process at 2:45pm, with anticipation building across the district as only two more exclusions remain before a winner is declared.