22 candidates have nominated so far as of 4pm this afternoon to contest the Gazelle Open seat in East New Britain Province since the opening of nominations last Thursday.
Gazelle Open Returning Officer John Wartovo said of the 22 who nominated, 20 are males with only two female candidates.
Among those who nominated includes current MP Jelta Wong who is endorsed by the United Resources Party and former MP Malakai Tabar who was endorsed by the National Alliance Party.
“We are expecting more than 30 candidates to be nominated by the end the nomination period at 4pm on Thursday,” Mr Wartove said.
“So far, so good, the supporters who turned up for their candidates nominations have behaved responsibly and we also made aware to them to respect their fellow contestants when going about with their campaign activities.”
The nomination for Gazelle Open is taking place at the Gazelle District Administration headquarters at Kerevat.