1972 Cook Islands general election


General elections were held in the Cook Islands on 11 April 1972. The result was a victory for the ruling Cook Islands Party, which won 15 of the 22 seats in the Legislative Assembly. The newly formed Democratic Party won seven seats. CIP leader Albert Henry remained Premier.

Background

The Assembly elected in May 1968 had a three-year term, with the next elections expected in 1971. However, in March 1969 a bill was approved to extend the parliamentary term to four years.

Campaign

Prior to the elections the United Cook Islanders party was disbanded, with its members joining the new Democratic Party founded by Thomas Davis after he returned to the Cook Islands from the United States. All candidates except a single independent were from the CIP or Democratic Party.
Incumbent MPs standing down included Director for Health and Aitutaki MP Joseph Williams and Teau-o-Tonga MP Teaukara.

Results

Elected members

Aftermath

Following the elections, Henry formed a new cabinet, in which he held fifteen portfolios. The other ministers were Inatio Akaruru, William Estall, Geoffrey Henry, Tupua Henry, Tiakana Numanga and Apenera Short.