Prime Minister and Tari-Pori MP Hon. James Marape has welcomed the final results of the Local-Level Government elections in Tari-Pori District, praising candidates, supporters and communities for delivering a peaceful, orderly and fair process marked by maturity, discipline and respect for democratic outcomes.
Prime Minister Marape said the successful completion of the elections across all five LLGs reflects a new level of stability and responsible leadership emerging in Hela Province. “The people of Tari-Pori have once again proven that peaceful elections are possible when communities and leaders work together,” he said. “Winners were humble in victory, and those who did not win were gracious in defeat. This is the behaviour of a mature society.”
The Prime Minister confirmed the official results for the five LLGs:
1. HAYAPUGA LLG
Winner: Dickson Peter — 12/21
Runner-up: Andrew Jhons Andagali — 9/21
2. TARI URBAN LLG
Winner: John Puni — 6/9
Runner-up: Andaja Jali — 3/9
3. TEBI LLG
Winner: David Tale — 12/19
Runner-up: James Tapara — 7/19
4. PORI LLG
Winner: Charlie Apalu — 9/16
Runner-up: Chris Koma — 7/16
5. TAGALI LLG
Hekele Undialu was elected President after tying with Ela Mai at 8/16 to 8/16. All avenues were exhausted, and the final outcome was determined through a neutral draw from a hat, which both candidates accepted peacefully.
Prime Minister Marape also officially acknowledged the re-election of the woman councillor for Kikita No. 1, Susan Tuku Tumbiari, who returns for her second consecutive term and has also been elected Deputy Mayor of Tari Town. “I commend Susan Tuku Tumbiari for her re-election and for becoming the Deputy Mayor of Tari Town,” he said. “Her people have again shown confidence in her leadership, and her achievement is an important milestone for women’s representation in Hela Province.” He also honoured the long-serving woman councillor from Hewate who did not return, noting her ten years of faithful service.
Prime Minister Marape commended all candidates for the responsible way they conducted themselves. “The elections were free, fair and peaceful,” he said. “I thank the winners for their humility and the runners-up for their acceptance of the result. Everyone showed maturity and discipline.”
He acknowledged the work of presiding magistrates, returning officers, the Electoral Commission, District CEO Mr Jack Walara, district staff, and the Hela Provincial Government. “Your teamwork ensured Tari-Pori delivered a credible election,” he said. “This is what effective governance looks like.”
The Prime Minister reminded all leaders — elected and non-elected — to remain in their communities and continue providing guidance. “Whether you win or lose, you are still a leader of your ward, your tribe and your family,” he said. “Your people still need you. Stay with them and continue serving.”
He emphasised that law and order is the immediate priority for all wards. “Resolve disputes peacefully,” he said. “Use dialogue and custom. That is how we keep peace in our communities.”
Prime Minister Marape said the peaceful conduct of the Tari-Pori elections sends a strong message to the country. “Tari-Pori has shown that Hela can deliver stable and safe elections,” he said. “This is the new Hela we are building.”
He concluded by reaffirming the Government’s support for the district. “My government will continue working with all five presidents and their ward councillors to deliver services,” he said. “Together, we will build a stable, peaceful and progressive Tari-Pori.”