The Ministry of Health is very sad to report the second COVID-19 related death in as many days. The Ministry can confirm that the former Prime Minister of the Cook Islands Dr Joseph Williams QSO passed away last night in Auckland City Hospital.
Dr Williams, who was in his 80s, was also a widely regarded member of health services in both New Zealand and the Cook Islands.
He was patron of the Pasifika Medical Association. Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield described him as a well-known politician, physician and published author. “Dr Williams was seen as a leading figure in the Cook Islands medical community and he will be sadly missed.” Dr Williams was admitted to Auckland City Hospital on 13 August and passed away yesterday