KIRIBATI – Maiana Island in Kiribati, the home island of outgoing president Anote Tong, will go to a second round of voting on January 7 after none of the candidates got 50 per cent of the vote in Thursday’s initial general election.

One of those to miss out is Mr Tong’s son, Vincent, who managed just 224 votes, finishing fifth among the candidates and failed to qualify for the second round.

David Collins got the most votes followed by Kaure Baboo and Tioera Baitika as they seek the two seats available.

On Christmas Island, newcomer Mikarite Temari, was elected MP while in Tabiteuea North, former government MP Taberannang Timeon and former opposition MP Kobebe Taitai, whose father once led the opposition, have all been re-elected.

A second round of voting is also to be held on Beru, Abernaama and North Tarawa and for the two remaining Christmas Island seats.

On Abaiang Island one of the three seats has been decided with Dr Kautu Tenamo winning.

Among those contesting for the remaining Abaiang seats next week is long-serving politician and former president Teatao Teannaki.