Retired journalist Philip Somerville is ready to welcome all to a vigorous election debate on Sunday. The candidate forum hosted by former journalist Philip Somerville has become a democratic institution since he first started organising them in the mid-1990s. All candidates are subjected to a gentle ribbing from Mr Somerville as a warm-up before getting started on a blistering serious of questions. Decked out in a whimsical "Cat in the Hat" red and white-striped top hat, tuxedo, and eye-catching yellow bow tie, Mr Somerville aims to deliver an evening that strikes a delicate balance between comedy and civic matters. With a passion for politics, Mr Somerville has seen many candidates strive to lay their case for votes over the years.

Source: Otago Daily Times October 07, 2023 19:16 UTC