The Democratic Party could have some leadership problems following the Cook Islands general election.
This follows comments in the Cook Islands News daily by the leader Terepai Maoate that the Prime Minister will be decided by caucus.
This is despite his support for Jim Marurai when his party replaced the Cook Islands Party as the Coalition partner late last year.
Mr Marurai says he only found out on his return from Mangaia a day after the general election
"After reading the paper, yes, I would like the issue settled as soon as possible, and if it's going to be Caucus, I'm with it."
Mr Marurai says he would like to stay on as Prime Minister, a position usually held by the party leader.
