Fannie Bay by-election: Brent Potter takes top spot, Raj takes another shot

Top spot on the ballot paper is the most sought-after spot in politics as it provides the holder a cheeky advantage. FIND OUT WHO HAS NABBED IT FOR FANNIE BAY.

THE random draw for the Fannie Bay by-election ballot paper order has put Labor well above the Country Liberals.

On Thursday, the Northern Territory Electoral Commission held the draw to decide what order candidates will appear on ballot papers for the August 20 by-election.

Labor’s Brent Potter took out the coveted top spot, while the CLP’s Ben Hosking landed last place.

Mr Hosking said he wasn’t worried about falling at the bottom of the pile because “everyone that is going to make a decision on election day is going to be well informed”.

“I really don’t think there is too much to worry about in my mind in regards to where my name falls on the election paper,” he said.

“I’m just really happy to be out there and have the opportunity to present a new fresh voice for the territory in that electorate.”

The middle of the pack revealed new candidates for the Fannie Bay by-election: George Mamouzellos (Independent), Raj Samson Rajwin (Independent), Jonathan Parry (Greens) and Leah Potter (Independent).

But why does the ballot order matter?

Because of the donkeys of course.

A donkey vote occurs when an elector numbers the ballot paper from top to bottom without any preference of candidate - which would give an advantage to the candidates at the top of the list.

While the advantage provided by the top spot is small, in a close vote it could make all the difference.

Greens candidate Jonathan Parry said he put his hand up for the Fannie Bay seat to “offer an alternative” to the major parties who have previously “failed to take local community issues seriously”.

The Parap local said climate change and justice issues would be on top of the agenda if he was elected on August 20.

“We see time and time again the two big parties struggle with long term decision making,” he said.

“I’m taking note of issues that actually matter to people on the ground which is a future for their families and a future for their children.”

The by-election was called following the resignation of former chief minister Michael Gunner from his role as MLA.

He called time on 14 years in the Legislative Assembly during July parliament sittings, citing wanting to spend more time with his family.

“In May I stepped down as Chief Minister. Tonight, I resign as the Member for Fannie Bay and the reasons are the same. It’s what is best for the people I serve and what is best for my family,” he said.