The saying “don’t count your chickens before they hatch” rang true in the Dei Open by-election as a dramatic final tally saw Desmond Kipa declared the new Member of Parliament for the electorate.

Kipa was officially declared MP-elect on Thursday evening at Kimninga Police Barracks, capping off a tightly contested race that kept supporters and observers on edge until the final elimination.

In a stunning last-minute turnaround, Kipa overtook rival Sam Koim during the decisive count following the elimination of frontrunner Tui Ekil, who had led the race from the early stages of counting.

According to official results, Kipa secured 28,064 votes, narrowly surpassing Sam Koim, who finished second with 27,146 votes.

Earlier in the day, widespread speculation on social media suggested Koim had won the seat, prompting premature celebrations and congratulatory messages from supporters across the country.

However, those claims were dispelled when returning officials confirmed Kipa’s victory shortly after 7 p.m.

The closely fought contest highlighted the unpredictable nature of preferential voting, with the final outcome determined only after the distribution of preferences from eliminated candidates.

With the declaration now complete, Kipa is set to represent the people of Dei Open in Parliament.