Byron Chan, the son of the late former Governor for the New Ireland province, Sir Julius Chan, has just been declared as member elect in the by election of the Provincial Seat.

Mr. Chan was declared winner this afternoon in Kavieng in the New Ireland province by the Provincial Returning Officer Mr. Benjamin Kliawi.

The son of the late governor received 21, 481 votes followed by the runner-up, Mr. Kepas Aruban Wali, with 15, 725 votes after the eighth (8th) exclusion.

Byron Chan is no stranger to politics. He was first elected into parliament during the 2002 National General Election as the Member for Namatanai, and was twice re-elected before being defeated by Walter Schnaubelt at the 2017 election. Prior to his defeat, he served as Minister for Mining in the Peter O'Neill led government.

The by election took place following the passing of the late Sir Julius last year.