Mark Brown takes over as new Cook Islands PM

Mark Brown was sworn in as the 12th Prime Minister of the Cook Islands in a ceremony last night.

The new Deputy Prime Minister is Robert Taipatau.

Mark Brown is sworn in as the new Prime Minister of the Cook Islands Photo: Office of the Cook Islands PM

Brown and his cabinet took the Oath of Allegiance and were issued with their warrants during a formal ceremony at Government House conducted by the Queen’s Representative, Sir Tom Marsters.

Brown replaces Henry Puna who stood down to contest the Secretary General’s role at the Pacific Islands Forum.

Brown, who has spent 10 years in parliament, was educated at Gisborne Boys’ High School, Massey University and the University of the South Pacific.

Before entering parliament he worked in the Cook Islands public service and also had business interests there.

In his time as Puna’s deputy he was very much the voice of the Cook Islands Party Government.