The Ministry of Internal Affairs has congratulated the female candidates elected as mayor and councillors at the 2024 Island Government Election held in August, saying it is a blueprint for others in the region to learn from and aspire to.

Aitutaki elected a record five female councillors: Matangaro Isamaela, Amuri councillor, Metuakore George Strickland, Nikaupara councillor, Twin Ruarangi, Tautu councillor, Terangi Natua-Ngaoire, Ureia councillor and Ngatokorua Ngatokoono Kamoe, Vaipeka councillor.

In Mauke, Joanne Rongoape Stephens was elected the new mayor and Vainetutai Oti as councillor for Parai. In Mangaia, Ngaupoko Lorraine Metuakore and Upokoongo Tairea were elected Tamarua and Ivirua councillors, respectively, while in Palmerston, Julianna Onegirl Marsters was elected as the councillor of Tepou.

In a statement, the Ministry of Internal Affairs said Aitutaki’s recent election had produced a monumental five women councillors from eight constituencies, representing the highest percentage, 62.5 per cent, of women in leadership ever recorded in the Cook Islands.

Last month, a Ministry of Internal Affairs delegation had the privilege of meeting with the newly appointed Aitutaki mayor, Nicholas Royle Henry, and the island’s council to offer its congratulations.

Secretary of Internal Affairs Anne Herman addressed the council saying: “We acknowledge the leaders and councillors that have enabled us to be where we are today and we look forward to what the future will bring for our island of Aitutaki, with your energy and our INTAFF energy combined we will do great things for our people.”

“We are so proud to see Aitutaki leading the way in women in leadership as well as our young councillor who will represent the voice of the youth at the decision-making table.”

In recognition and celebration of this significant shift in leadership, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has awarded all five women with treasured mementos to inspire more inclusive, gender-balanced governance.

“There is already air of excitement across the island with the ladies already bringing fresh ideas and a deep sense of commitment to their communities. They represent the future of leadership on Aitutaki. They’re not just filling seats – they’re bringing perspective, strength, and compassion to the council in a way that will ensure the voices of families, children, and vulnerable communities are truly heard and prioritised. It’s so encouraging to see a council that reflects the diverse fabric of its people, and these councillors are leading the charge in making that a reality,” the ministry said.

In addition to celebrating the women councillors of Aitutaki, the ministry would also like to acknowledge other women throughout the Cook Islands who hold leadership positions in their respective island governments.

“The Cook Islands is making waves in the Pacific by showing what’s possible when we empower women in leadership. Their presence signals a new chapter for their islands – one where collaboration, inclusion, and progressive solutions take centre stage. It’s a blueprint that others in the region can learn from and aspire to.”