Incumbent President Anote Tong sought re-election to a third four-year term, ending months of speculation about his decision.

[4] The elections, initially scheduled for 30 December 2011, were postponed to 13 January 2012 in order to allow citizens of the country to travel to celebrate the New Year.

[5] The president was elected by popular vote from among three or four candidates chosen by MPs, and was limited to three four-year terms under the constitution.

[6] The new House of Assembly of Kiribati nominated three candidates for the presidency following the 2011 parliamentary election.

[4] President Tong defeated his closest challenger, Tetaui Taitai, by more than 7%, or 2,500 votes.