Can the Governor assume administration of an area without conducting a fresh general election first?
Yes, the Governor can assume administration of an area without conducting a fresh general election first. This is stated in clause (b) of paragraph 116(1), which allows the Governor to take over the administration of an area for a period not exceeding twelve months if they are dissolving a District or Regional Council and assuming its administration themselves, or placing it under any other body deemed suitable by them. This can be done before conducting a fresh general election for reconstituting the Council.