PNG New Ireland Seat Stays with Chan Family as Byron Wins By-Election

PNG politics in New Ireland has once again delivered a familiar name to the provincial leadership, with Byron Chan securing victory in the by-election for the New Ireland Provincial seat on Friday afternoon.

Byron Chan 

The former Namatanai MP, contesting under the People’s Progress Party banner, was declared the winner after polling 21,481 votes following the eighth elimination count.

Returning officer Benjamin Kliawi made the official announcement in Kavieng, confirming that the seat remains within the Chan family after it was left vacant following the death of Sir Julius Chan.

Kepas Wali emerged as the runner-up, finishing second with a total of 15,725 votes.

Mr Kliawi declared the result in Kavieng, stating, “Byron Chan is the duly elected member for the New Ireland Provincial seat.”