Community advocate Michael Earley is contesting the Ward 2 council seat in the upcoming Ahi Local Level Government (LLG) elections in the Morobe province, with a commitment to drive impactful change and amplify the voices of the people of Ahi. Earley, a resident of Butibam village, was officially nominated on April 25 at 10am at the Ahi LLG council chamber. His nomination was received by Assistant Returning Officer Rhode Ahi and witnessed by his wife. Running under the campaign theme “I Can Help You. Yes, I Can!”, Earley’s platform focuses on key development priorities including education, youth employment, landowner recognition, SME growth, and inclusive partnerships. Central to his agenda is improving access to education for the Ahi students. He has proposed a program to support students aiming to study abroad, particularly in Australia. According to Earley, he has initiated a potential arrangement with AusAID, where he would sponsor the first year of studies and AusAID would support the remaining years—provided the students maintain good discipline and performance. He also plans to assist young people interested in short-term training and skills development courses, which he believes are vital for increasing employability and self-sufficiency. If elected, Earley intends to work closely with the Lae City Authority and private sector partners to develop sustainable solutions to the issue of youth unemployment and to encourage broader economic participation in Ward 2. A long-time community volunteer, Earley recently coordinated the Rosso Lae Community Clean-a-thon on May 3rd and 4th. The event brought together schools, churches, businesses, and government agencies in a collaborative effort to clean the city and promote civic pride. Earley says his campaign is about giving back and creating opportunities for others. He believes strong, accountable leadership can open new doors for the people of Ward 2 and beyond.