Kiribati's president wins third term amid regional support
- Kiribati President Taneti Maamau has been re-elected for a third term, securing 55% of the votes in the October 25 election.
- His closest opponent, Kaotitaake Kokoria, received 42% of the votes but had defected from the ruling party shortly before the election.
- Maamau's administration has emphasized strengthening ties with China, despite expressing concern over China's missile tests and calling for peace and stability in the Pacific.
On October 25, 2024, Taneti Maamau was re-elected as the President of Kiribati, marking his third term in office. He received 55% of the vote, defeating his main challenger, Kaotitaake Kokoria, who managed to secure 42%. Kokoria's surprising defection from the ruling party just days before the election to form a new alliance was a pivotal moment in the contest, highlighting the dynamic political landscape in the nation. Since taking office in 2016, Maamau has committed to strengthening connections with China, positioning Kiribati in the broader geopolitical arena of the Pacific. Leaders from New Zealand and Australia congratulated Maamau on his victory, expressing willingness to collaborate on shared initiatives. Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping also reached out, reaffirming China's intention to enhance bilateral relations with Kiribati. These diplomatic ties, however, have been complicated by regional tensions. Maamau's administration has publicly expressed reservations about recent missile tests conducted by China, asserting that such activities do not contribute to regional stability. They emphasized that the Pacific is not merely an isolated ocean, but a vital part of their national identity and called for an end to weapon testing. The political and diplomatic dynamics in Kiribati reflect broader challenges and opportunities for Pacific island nations as they navigate relationships with prominent global powers and manage their own pressing national issues.