Former Cook Islands PM

Former Cook Islands PM Jim Marurai dies

Marurai was prime minister for six years, from 2004 to 2010.

He had been in parliament from 1994 until his resignation, because of ill health, in 2017.

Marurai was born in July 1947 on Mangaia and had been described as of that island's favourite sons.

Like a number of the Cook Island leaders, he was a product of Otago university, and became a teacher before entering politics.

The current prime minister, Mark Brown, expressed his condolences and sympathy on behalf of the people and government of the Cook Islands.

Pacific health expert says the death of former Cook Islands PM a harsh but clear reminder of Covid-19

“It’s brought up the reality.

Former Cook Islands PM dies in Auckland from Covid

The 82 year old had been admitted to hospital on 13 August and passed away last night.

Dr Williams' death is the second this week associated to the latest Auckland outbreak of the coronavirus.

In a statement, the Ministry of Health said Dr Williams' death brings the total number of people who have died from the coronavirus in New Zealand to 24.

The Pasifika Medical Association announced his passing, saying he was a well-respected and much loved man.