Polling in Kabwum District in Morobe province is moving ahead peacefully, with all ballot papers now delivered to the four Local Level Governments (LLG). Morobe Rural Police Commander, Senior Inspector Yonga Yawongan said the atmosphere is calm and security personnel are in place across the district. Security has been stepped up with officers from the Mobile Squad, Special Response Unit, and local police deployed across the district. He warned against any plans to disrupt the vote, especially attempts to hijack ballot boxes, saying police would respond firmly. “We’re not taking any chances,” said Inspector. The move comes after the 2022 national election, where disruptions involving ballot boxes led to court-ordered fresh polling. Polling teams are expected to complete their work by the weekend, with ballot boxes transported back to Lae by Sunday or Monday. Counting is expected to begin next week at the stadium in Lae city. Election officials say the goal is to finish polling this week and begin counting in Lae by July 26 or 28, depending on venue availability. A winner is expected to be declared in early August.