Preparations for the local-level government (LLG) elections are underway in Madang Province, but a delay in the arrival of ballot papers is causing concern among election officials. Madang Election Manager Sponsa Navi confirmed that while training for Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) is scheduled to begin this week, election materials are still yet to be delivered. “We’ll be training our AROs over the next three days,” Navi said. “Thanks to recent funding, we’ve been able to begin our logistical preparations.” Despite these efforts, the absence of ballot papers remains a major issue with polling expected to start soon. “The ballot papers haven’t reached us yet,” Navi stated. “We’re hopeful they will arrive by next week before polling commences.” The delay adds pressure on election teams working in a province already facing typical logistical challenges, including difficult terrain and limited infrastructure. Still, Navi says his team is making the most of the time available by pushing ahead with tasks that can be completed ahead of the ballot paper arrival. With polling dates yet to be confirmed, electoral authorities continue to emphasize the importance of timely delivery of materials to ensure Madang’s voting process proceeds smoothly.