allegations against Stephen as baseless upon taking office, telling reporters, "There was no evidence or proof. I think Marcus himself felt that this whole discussion had become a distraction to parliament and to government and he offered to resign. I think he did a noble thing and I applaud him for it. So far allegations [go] I think they were only allegations. I saw nothing to prove they were anything other than false allegations." Pitcher's presidency was not expected to affect the Australian opposition's plan to open a new immigration centre in Nauru. Loss of Parliamentary confidence vote After the defection of one of his supporters Pitcher lost a parliamentary vote of confidence and the presidency on 15 November. Sprent Dabwido was elected as his successor. Out of Parliament Former President Pitcher was defeated for re-election to Parliament in elections held in June 2013. See also 2008 Nauruan parliamentary election Politics in Nauru References Finance Ministers of Nauru Government ministers of Nauru Living people Macquarie University alumni Members of the Parliament of Nauru Nauru First politicians Presidents of Nauru Australian people of Nauruan descent 1967 births Environment ministers of Nauru 21st-century Nauruan politicians