Solomon Islands Provincial Assembly Member for Ghaobata, Steven Panga is now the Guadalcanal Province Premier for the next two years.
Panga defeated rival, Walton Naezon by only one vote - he polled a total of 11 votes while Naezon received 10 votes.
In an address following his victory, Panga called for unity and cooperation among Guadalcanal People to move the province forward.
He said the political impasse is now resolved and the province's executive can concentrate on the province's economic development to improve living standards in Guadalcanal.
The newly elected Premier also explained his last minute grass hopping as being in the best interest of the province's budget.
Panga replaces Anthony Veke who resigned amidst allegations of abuse of office and misappropriation of provincial grants.
The election took place this morning at the Solomon Islands Christian Association Headquarters in Honiara under tight security from Royal Solomon Islands Police Force officers.
Meanwhile, Guadalcanal's new Premier-elect says his executive will honor already established policy framework and work plans designed by the previous Veke-led executive.
In his official address after his victory, Premier Panga said he will make changes only in cases of absolute necessary.
Panga concluded his address with assurances his executive will liaise with the National Government to establish serious dialogue on the Doma township project and the proposed fourth campus of the University of the South Pacific.
Source: http://www.sibconline.com.sb