The island of Akatokamanava/Mauke celebrated its elected Island Council members during the swearing-in ceremony yesterday morning at the Government Representative building site.

Mauke’s newly-elected mayor Joanne Rongoape Stephens said: “Rejoice in the Lord always and I am very thankful.”

“It was such a beautiful, blessed occasion and it was good to see the kids from school come to witness the event to learn about it.”

Stephens said it was likely that their first Island Council meeting would be held next week.

One of the top priorities for discussions is to motivate, encourage and get the community into planting crops.

The removal of the pest acacia trees around the island is an issue Stephens would like to see addressed.

She suggested that the acacia trees be chopped down, noting that the wood could be used for outdoor cooking fires. This would help people meet the high cost of living and save on their gas bottles.

Stephens is also passionate about increasing the population on the island.

“I really would like to encourage people overseas to return to Mauke.”

She acknowledged the council members, the community of Mauke, the Ariki of Mauke, MP Stephen Matapo, Tiki Matapo, Speaker of the House and former Mauke MP Tai Tura, the representatives of the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), the students of Mauke School and the Religious Advisory Council members for attending the event.

Justice of the Peace Teata Purea Ateriano was given the honour of presenting the warrants to the candidates. Emcee for the event was Teahui Tauu.

Six candidates contested for the role of Mauke mayor in the 2024 Island Government Elections last month. Stephens finished on top with 53 votes. From the main roll of 218 eligible voters, 190 voters turned up to the polls.

The 2024 Mauke Island Council members for the next four years are:  Mayor – Joanne Rongoape Stephens, Representative nō te Aronga Mana - Akerongo Teatai, Avaavaroa Council Member – Benedicta Tamaka Matapo, Parai Council Member – Vainetutai Oti, Makatea Council Member – Arapo Urarii, Areora Council Member – Marcellino Akamoeau, Ngatiarua Council Member – Ngarue Tuakanangaro.