FORMER PNG MINISTER and Ambassador to China, John Momis, has moved to a big lead in the Bougainville presidential election.

Late yesterday his 30,265 votes overshadowed current president James Tanis with 15,160 and Reuben Siara (6,366), Martin Miriori (4,524), Robert Atsir (3,903), Magdalen Toroansi (2,684) and Sylvester Niu (1,531) trailing.

In the general election, 27 seats have been declared since counting for began a week ago.

Of the 27, only seven formers members have retained their seats, including two Ministers, Primary Industry Minister Dominic Itta and Works Minister Patrick Nisira.