Polling for the residents of Touaguba Hill and Paga in Moresby South electorate ward 2 started off slowly yesterday, with polling commencing at 1pm, which left voters frustrated over the very late start. This delay was due to a minority of scrutineers, unsatisfied with certain conditions of the polling site, at the same time disputing the eligibility of former Paga Hill settlement residents. The polling crew arrived late at the polling site, thus prolonging the polling process for disgruntled civilians. Not too long after the polling booths were set up did the next round of dispute ensue. A small minority of scrutineers started questioning the eligibility of the former Paga settlement residents, arguing that since they no longer reside at Paga, they should not be voting at the polling site. The scrutineers argued that these residents no longer reside here and were evicted years ago, therefore they should no longer be here to cast their vote. This carried on for a few more hours before Assistant Returning Officer for Moresby South ward 2, Neil Opal stepped in to address the situation, assuring the people that all whose names that are on the common roll will exercise their right to vote. Also present at the polling venue, current seating member Justin Tkatckenko and the only female candidate contesting the Moresby South Electorate, Michelle Hau’ofa. Polling commenced at around 1pm in the afternoon.

NCD is ready for polling. Assistant Returning Officer for the Moresby North-East, Mr. Tauna Lahui has given the assurance that the polling officials and materials are ready to be shipped out to the various polling sites at 6 am in the morning. A total of 402 gazetted ballot boxes will be distributed throughout the whole electorate. The distribution of the ballot boxes is as follows: Ward 12 will receive 120 ballot boxes, Ward 5 will receive 68 with 10 boxes of ballot papers, Ward 9 will receive 140 boxes and ward 6 will receive 75, the number of boxes will be shared for the open and regional seats. In light of the recent discrepancies that had been encountered in the past 4 days, prior to the pre-check a few candidates had their request granted by the Election officials, which was to sign on all gazetted ballot boxes as proof that they are the proper boxes for polling. This and the pre-check for the ballot papers were confirmed under the watchful eyes of the candidates and scrutineers. All regional boxes are marked with blue ink and those of the open seats are marked in red. The finalized list of polling officials has already gone through training and now awaits dawn for early deployment to the polling sites. Polling will start at 8:00 am in the morning.

National Capital District police have detected two extra ballot boxes that were among other boxes in a container that was moved from the Air Transport Wing, 7 mile to Sir John Guise Stadium on the weekend. The illegal ballot boxes were found to have been added to the lot which had serial numbers that did not match up with the PNG Electoral Commissions list. National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent, Gideon Ikumu confirmed that the ballot boxes were among those belonging to the Moresby North-West electorate that were transferred from ATS. “When the Ballot Papers were brought in, they were stored at ATS. So all the logistical operations and security detail were planned by the Electoral Commission,” Ikumu said. The discovery of the illegal boxes in the container was the result of questions over the integrity of the ballot boxes raised by MNE candidates and scrutineers at the site. Ikumu stated that yesterday, the police were engaged to escort the movement of the ballot boxes from their first holding location to the counting area for checking before the pre-check prior to polling. It was at the stadium that the extras were detected. He also commended the actions taken by the scrutineers and candidates that were available on ground protesting the integrity of the extra ballot boxes. “The scrutineers of the candidates that were there did a good job identifying and pointing the extras, protested and demanded to have an explanation from the electoral commission,” he added. They demanded that before the sensitive materials be locked up and confined, they had to be checked thoroughly first. Supt. Ikumu added that when the boxes were checked against the serial numbers provided by the electoral manager, it was discovered that two extra boxes were not part of the list. Upon the opening of the extra boxes, it was found that the ballot papers contained in the boxes were duplicated and were significantly different from those produced in Australia. The boxes are now isolated and kept in the container while the candidates and scrutineers are now demanding an explanation as to why there were extras. The Electoral Commission is said to tender their explanation this afternoon. Meanwhile, Supt. Ikumu has advised that should the commission not provide a proper explanation, the NCD police will proceed to conduct an investigation into the illegal ballot boxes.

The City Pharmacy Group of Companies Limited and major telecommunications giant, Vodafone, today launched their Electronic Voucher Service at the Stop N Shop Central Waigani Supermarket in Port Moresby. General Manager for Marketing at the CPL Group, Mr. Kevin Alo expressed great delight, remarking that it is was a wonderful partnership in terms of launching a value added service for the customers, thanked all the major stakeholders for making the event possible. “We are here today in the name of efficiency and innovation. We are aligning our customer service to ensure that Vodafone Customers are able to officially top up when making any purchase at Stop N Shop,” he said. He further added that as everyone is well aware that all the CPL range of brands are around the country, the interaction between the brand and thousands of customers around the country is prevalent and the innovative move made by Vodafone, aligns part and partial of CPL’s mission in delivering outstanding value and exceptional customer experience on their mobile service products. Currently the shops have two other mobile operators on the system including the power service rechargeable units. He reiterated that Vodafone's joining is part of CPL providing exceptional customer service to their customers, not just in the capital but all over the country. The electronic voucher system will not only be rolled out in Port Moresby but in other centres including Lae, Madang, Goroka, Mt. Hagen and Wewak. This will be beneficial for customers and at the same time extending the Vodafone footprint. Over time, both parties are planning to extend the Voucher Dispensary service to all parts of the country. With the service, customers will be able to purchase top up from as low as K1 up to K100. The service is available when a customer is about to purchase the groceries, they can enquire at the cash register of how much they wish to top up and they will directly add it to your phone. Mr. Alo welcomed all Vodafone customers and potential Vodafone customers to the shop.

The Office of Censorship [OC] and Media Niugini L.T.D [EMTV], today signed an agreement of co-sponsorship for the popular talent identification programme, Vocal Fusion. This will be the ninth season in the franchise and the Office of Censorship is proud to officially commit to co-sponsoring the programme. Chief Censor, Mr. Jim Abani today stated that it was an important occasion as it not only signified the signing of a co-sponsorship agreement but also a positive step to the censorship of indecent content on all platforms. The OC is adamant on Awareness & Advocacy and the TV station will boost their current awareness campaign with the vocal fusion platform. “The agreement with EMTV looks promising and the office of censorship will encourage and promote decent content on all platforms,” Mr. Abani said. He further reiterated that any Television, Radio, Newspaper or any other publication of content must be decent and echo the values and morals of the public consuming the content. “When we first started talking about censoring content, everyone had criticism for the Office,” he said. Mr Abani thanked EMTV for their support in promoting local aspiring artists and also disseminating moral and ethical programs for general public consumption. EMTV Sales Manager, Lawrence Lahari, on behalf of Media Niugini L.t.d thanked the chief censor, while voicing his excitement, saying although it was a small gathering, it was a very momentous occasion. “The steps taken today will be to promote local artists and encourage them to be creative and come up with moral and ethical lyrics,” Mr. Lahari said.  

The pressure is on for the New South Wales Blues as they look to climb themselves out of a 1-0 deficit to level the series tonight when they go head to head with rookie Queensland coach Billy Slaters' Maroons. The Maroons are 1 up against the Blues, meaning they could put the series to bed if they beat the Blues tonight. Meanwhile, here in the capital, we went around asking who would take away the spoils tonight and also by what margin. Some fans' opinions on tonight's games outcome; [audio wav="https://pnghausbung.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/REVAMPED-SOO-GAME-2-VOX.wav"][/audio]

Never has the country been united as they watched their beloved team battle it out on the pitch with a strong, powerhouse rugby league nation like Fiji. The brave Kumuls, being on the back foot in most of the stats except the score-line, made a bold statement last night bringing down giant slayers, the Fiji Bati in a master class defensive exhibition at the Campbell Town Stadium in New South Wales. All over the country, citizens young and old were saddened that veteran David Mead has moved on from representative footy but rejoiced at the outcome of his final match. The Kumuls, fielding a handful of debutants, proved too powerful in defense, as they outmuscled a physical adversary on the Fijian side, beating them 24-14. Here's what some of the fans had to say about the match; [audio wav="https://pnghausbung.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/REVAMPED-POST-KUMULS-VOX.wav"][/audio]

Businessman and party leader for Future of PNG Party Dr. Sergey Mosin pledged to the residents of Air Niugini village at 6 mile in Port Moresby that he will work towards boosting job employment and improve standard of living by lifting the minimum wage should he be mandated by the people of Moresby North-East this election. Dr. Mosin said this week during his mini-rally to outline his plans for the Moresby North East Electorate. He said that in order to do this, a lot effort will be needed to address this issues. He said that even though there is still much work to be done, he is willing to put his head down and work for the people if they appoint him. Dr. Sergey and members of his campaign committee were present at the rally, were he urged the residents of the estate to make the right decision come poll day. A community leader Mr. Michael Warpit said that in the last 36 years, no member of parliament and even governor has ever set foot in the compound. “As you can see, we are a forgotten community in the Moresby North-East Electorate. We have seen many leaders enter the floor of parliament and none have ever come to our community. Not even the Governor” he said. He stated that even petitions were sent to the government but so far nothing. There has never been a positive response. He added that the communal field which the rally was held was almost lost to the government after the lands department tried to take away from the community. Dr Mosin also outlined his career path from whence he came from, that is his homeland Russia. After graduating with a degree in thermodynamics, he then enlisted in the Army, as it was compulsory for all Russians to serve 3 years. After being injured in Afghanistan, he returned home to Russia where he found employment in different ministries of the government where he would apply his expertise. Due to medical conditions he had to relocate to somewhere more humid. He first travelled to Singapore and Malaysia before learning about PNG and eventually settling here. Dr. Mosin added that he noticed the living conditions of many ordinary citizens to be sub-standard. “Even with a vast amount of resources, the people live in very challenging conditions,” Dr. Mosin stated. He compared the country to others in the region and stated that good governance is what the people need. He further reiterated that after spending 30 years in the country, he is putting his hand up to represent the electorate that he loves. “I have lived at 9 mile for over 15 years and would like to bring change to the people,” he said.  

The people of 9 mile outside Port Moresby were in full traditional gear and excitement to celebrate the opening of the Saivara Market at 9mile. NCD Governor, Powes Parkop and Moresby North-East member John Kaupa, today officially opened the market in front of a cheerful crowd, mostly mothers from 9 mile. Mr. Kaupa said that this was a momentous occasion as the cries for the people have now been heard. [caption id="attachment_22852" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Pictures by Nigel-Francis MADO[/caption] While on stage, Mr. Kaupa spoke of many issues, one was the rumours of the settlements eviction. The settlers of the Saivara and Bushwara settlements were assured by the seating MP that there will be no evictions to the settlements. “There will be no forceful evictions to the settlements, Mr. Kaupa said. He stated that there is a win-win situation or arrangement that the government has with the people and the landowners. That was the consensus that has been reached. Governor Parkop said the cost of opening the construction of the market was K5million and equipped with 180 stalls for vendors, stating that even though it was the election period, government business must still go on. He added that it was important the opening of the market opened, as people were still selling produce on the side of roads and it was not right. “People are still marketing on the roads. This is why I want the people to come to a good environment with facilities to Market,” he said. Governor Parkop reiterated that this is an initiative that will help people improve their lives and through it can contribute to the community as a whole.

Preparations for National General Elections in the Milne Bay Province is in its final stages, says Milne Bay Police Boss, Superintendent Peter Barkie. He said that right now their focus is to organize three main groups of security personnel that will be deployed into the 4 districts of the province. “There will be 3 groups of security personnel operating in unison to ensure the safety of civilians and Electoral Commission workmen and women,” Barkie said. The 3 groups of security personnel will comprise of the following; The Command & Logistics Team, who will be based in all the police stations across the province, commanding operations in the districts and providing the logistical assistance to the teams within the operation zones. This is to make sure that normal police operations are stable and that there will be officers at the stations to assist people who need help. The second grouping of officers are the Polling Security Teams [PST] that will be assisting members of the Electoral Commission by ensuring their security at polling booths. Superintendent Barkie said that in Milne Bay, there are 130 polling teams and 3 police officers will be assigned to each team. He added that the final team of security personnel will be the Quick Reaction Force [QRF]. “They will be responsible for creating a safe, secure environment in which the Election Manager and his team will be able to operate,” he said. The QRF will also be dealing with public order management and/or any other disturbances that arise. Their responsibilities defer to that of the Polling Security Team. “The PST will be responsible for the security of the ballot boxes, the polling officials, the observers and the journalists covering the elections, whereas the QRF will be on standby for interventions,” Barkie added. The QRF will be comprised of the Police Mobile Squad [MS], The National Security Unit [NSU], the Defense Force Land [Infantry] & Maritime Elements and finally the members of the Correctional Services. Almost 600 security personnel will be deployed for the election operations in the province. Superintendent Barkie stated that the current number of police personnel in the province is 74 [officers] and with the addition of the sister security forces, that number will increase at least 5 times. He advised that he is comfortable with the manpower allocated to him and the logistic arrangement and is confident that they will deliver a successful National General Election that is free, fair and safe.

Women empowerment, urban settlement issues and a prolonged SME program are some key issues that will need to be addressed should he be mandated by the people of the Moresby North-East electorate, says candidate Carl Okuk. Speaking to the people of Kanage St., Mr. Okuk outlined his plans for the people of 6mile, stating that housing would be priority as most of the people living along the street have been living there for more than 20 – 30 years. As part of this plan, Mr. Okuk policy is to push for communal ownership for housing. “We will push to sign contracts with all home owners and long-time public servants to own homes,” Okuk said.He added that housing is important as many living within the city come from all parts of the country. Okuk stated that we all come from different walks of life and are settling within the city, we have to live within that fact. He also said that urban settlements are in danger and with the city expanding, these settlements will be prime land for expansion. He said that it is a long term agenda that needs to be addressed. “Many have given their service to the country and it’s only right we give back,” he added. Addressing the crowd, he stated that there are policies in place and that they needed government will to push for them. He urged them to analyze people before they cast their votes, saying that people will say anything to get into parliament and it’s important that people take responsibility and ownership. “Should be two things to take into consideration when electing a leader. Firstly, knowledge and experience in their fields of expertise. They must have sound knowledge of what they aim to achieve they must have the experience to showcase that they are capable of fulfilling their role. Secondly, they must have the passion and dedication to work with the people for the people,” he said. Mr. Okuk came in second in the last election, falling short to seating candidate John Kaupa.

On the eve of round 9 of the Digicel Cup, more excitement is brewing. The Kimbe Cutters will be out to prove a point when they take on the Goroka Lahanis at home this weekend. With a record of 2/8 games this season, they will come out firing. Meanwhile over in East New Britain, competition leaders, the Agmark Rabaul Gurias will be looking to bounce back after the devastating upset loss to the Kroton Hela Wigmen when they take on the JPG Waghi Tumbe. The PRK Gulf Isou will be travelling to Mt. Hagen on Sunday to take on the Mighty Wamp Nga Mt. Hagen Eagles over at the Jonah Amban Memorial Oval. With a home game advantage, the mountain men should are expected to pull off an upset. CPG Central Dabaris are looking to outmuscle the Kroton Hela Wigmen as they face off at the Santos National Football Stadium, this will be following the funeral procession of the late Steven Vele. Although kick-off will be at 3pm, there will be curtain raisers before the game. Over in Lae, the PRK Mendi Muruks Vs The Moni Plus Port Moresby Vipers will Kick of at 1pm while in the afternoon sees defending champs the Lae Snax Tigers take on the EPG Enga Mioks in an epic double header. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..