Election certification and swearing-in status ahead of Jan. 6 meeting
The North Carolina State Board of Elections has certified Kareem Moore as mayor and Les Lipford as a member of the Kinston City Council.
Sammy Aiken, whose election was not disputed, is also eligible to be sworn in.
With certification complete, all three elected officials may take the oath of office and formally assume their roles. Both Moore and Lipford plan to be sworn in at tonight’s meeting.
The Kinston City Council is scheduled to meet tonight, Jan. 6, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. If sworn in, Moore would immediately assume the powers and duties of mayor, and Lipford and Aiken would begin their council terms.
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