People in Wards 1 to 5 of Usino Bundi Gama in Madang province who turned up to vote today had to return home without casting their ballots, as polling has been pushed to tomorrow.
Provincial Election Manager Mr. Sponsa Navi explained that polling teams arrived too late to move out to their locations in time.
“Polling was meant to begin today, but the Returning Officer decided to shift it to the 22nd because of delays,” he said.
The helicopter that was supposed to fly officials into the hard-to-reach places like Bundi and Gama was also delayed due to payment issues.
Even with these challenges, there have been no security concerns. A total of 118 police officers are now in the district, including members of Mobile Squad 13, Lae’s response unit, Madang police, and local units.
Ramu Police Station Commander, Inspector Edward Alphonse, said things have been quiet.
“It’s peaceful. No problems reported so far,” he said.
Polling teams are now expected to head out tomorrow. Officials are confident the rest of the by-election process will go ahead without further delays and are calling on people to remain calm and patient.
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