Holt's announcement yesterday came less than 24 hours before today's filing deadline and about 21/2 hours after Holt's aide, Tracy-Ann Kashinoki, pulled nomination papers for him.

Holt said: "I've worked through my share of personal problems, and having to deal with my professional and personal life in the news media has been difficult at times. But that was my responsibility and I've learned and grown from what I've been through.

"I've always worked hard on behalf of the people of Kalihi (and) Palama and I plan to continue working hard for as long as I have the opportunity to serve."

In 1991, Holt served 48 hours in jail after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor for abusing his wife.

The couple divorced last year, and Holt got custody of their three sons, ages 7, 9 and 11.

Holt also has been fined $450 by the U.S. Customs Service for bringing into Hawaii undeclared jewelry after a taxpayer-paid Asia trip.

Holt, 43, said he decided to reverse a decision he made in 1994 - that he would not seek re-election so that he could spend more time with his young sons - because of his constituents' urgings and because "there is still a lot I want to do on behalf of the people of Kalihi (and) Palama."

Chun Oakland, 35, said she came to expect Holt's entry into the race.

Previously, she had no intentions of trying to oust Holt if he was going to run for re-election.

But when Chun Oakland could not get Holt to tell her what his plans were, she decided to run.