In the final panel session focusing on security of the elections that concluded the Transparency International Election Seminar 2022, many ideas were presented as to how they could be properly addressed before the next election in 2027.
Panelists from agencies centered on the National General Election (NGE) and captivating discussions and questions were exchanged during the seminar, purposely on how the Electoral Commission (EC) along with relative authorities could strategize to promote a fair and transparent election.
Deputy Head of Delegation to the EU Dr. Silviu Jora highlighted that a significant number of Papua New Guineans are more active and interested in politics compared to other modern democratic nations.
Dr. Jora laid out recommendations compiled by the EU for the Electoral Commission to consider. Recommendations were based on strategies and implementations on how to promote transparency, during the polling and election process.
Dr. Jora stressed that the main concern that EC needs to address would be the update of the common roll, which need much improvement.
“Something has to be done to the electoral roll in order to restore public confidence. The Electoral roll is not reformed, not improved and not renewed. National Census should be conducted not only for future relation but for the progress of this country”, said Dr. Jora.
Meanwhile, security during the election is a vital role and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) is planning their operations as early as possible for the next NGE, according to the Deputy Correctional Services Commissioner, Michael Mosiri.
Correctional Service in collaboration with the PNG Defense Force operates on a call out by the EC and the RPNGC and will still continue during the next NGE.
The Deputy Commissioner elaborated that effective communication between the EC and RPNGC is a pathway to ensure the safety prior and during the election period.
“This communication network needs to be established early so we can communicate our roles and participation in delivering good outcomes for the next National General Election,” said Mosiri.