During the official writs signing ceremony held yesterday afternoon, Electoral Commissioner Simon Sinai delivered critical guidelines for the upcoming 2025 Local Level Government (LLG) and Motu Koita Assembly elections.
These measures are aimed at maintaining transparency, integrity, and legal compliance throughout the electoral process.
Commissioner Sinai announced that all Chairpersons and board members of Statutory Provincial Authorities (SPAs) intending to contest for any positions – whether president or ward member – must first resign from their current roles.
“The board members, including chairmen, must resign before they contest. This is to ensure the integrity of the election,” Sinai stated. He further clarified that this rule also applies during any upcoming by-elections.
He also addressed recent media reports regarding the use of government funds to support election campaigns, cautioning all open members and governors not to make financial commitments on behalf of the government to aid candidates.
“Let’s allow the process to take place cleanly, so there are no questions asked later. These matters are also subject to legal scrutiny,” Sinai emphasized.
Commissioner Sinai underscored the importance of a fair and clean electoral process, encouraging all intending candidates and supporters to uphold the laws and respect the electoral timeline. He thanked all involved stakeholders, including the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, for their collaborative efforts in supporting this national event.
These firm but fair rules serve as a reminder of the Electoral Commission’s commitment to upholding democratic principles, ensuring a level playing field, and protecting the credibility of Papua New Guinea’s electoral system.