Polling in Wewak will close today following its commencement on Tuesday and so far, things have been peaceful.
The Returning Officer for the Wewak Open By-Election, James Piapia told PNG HAUSBUNG that so far everything has been running smoothly with nil incidents over the past 3 weeks.
He said the only issue being faced by the team in Wewak is a shortage of fuel. This has been a major hurdle that they are looking to address as they have teams that are actively moving from the mainland to polling sites on the 4 outer islands of Muschu, Koil, Kairuru and Tarawai but otherwise all is well in Wewak.
“We just sent them (Polling Teams) in, so we are waiting and expecting some more fuel.”
Mr. Piapia stated that today will see the close of polling and counting will commence as soon as all ballot boxes return to the counting area at the Provincial Administration Building. He said in terms of security for the latter part of the By-Elections, there are enough security personnel on the ground in the province to cater for that.
“We have enough security personnel; we have all the Police backing with commanders in 6 Local Level Governments in the District and the Defense and Correctional Services personnel as well.”
He said they are all on site and is thankful for the support shown by all.