David Kabua

New president for Marshall Islands

Mr Kabua, a veteran politician and former cabinet minister who is the second son of founding president Amata Kabua, won the vote by 20-12 with one abstention.

Mr Kabua has previously held the health and internal affairs ministerial portfolios.

Mr Kabua was seen as a presidential candidate who could bring rival candidates together as a leader acceptable to most factions, said RNZ Pacific correspondent Giff Johnson.

He described Mr Kabua as a likeable man, with a "low-key personality".

New president for Marshall Islands

Mr Kabua is a veteran politician and former cabinet minister who is the eldest son of founding president Amata Kabua.

He was reportedly seen as a presidential candidate who could bring rival candidates together as a middle-of-the-road leader acceptable to most factions.

Mr Kabua has previously held the health and internal affairs ministerial portfolios.

Hilda Heine lost the position after a vote was carried out during the first session of Parliament today after the November general election.