Police in the New Ireland Province are relying on updated data from the Electoral Commission to determine the total number of voters who are eligible for the upcoming 2027 National General Election.
This is to assist Police in the province to plan out their operations based on the actual population.
Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Albert Beli noted that many new people are moving into the province which could affect police duties during elections period.
While people are moving to New Ireland Province for their own reasons, PPC Beli said they have to be prepared for the challenges ahead.
“Yes, for the New Ireland Police Command based on my observations in Kavieng and an assessment across the four corners of the region, comprising 58 small islands and mainland New Ireland—I think in terms of confidence and assurance to deliver this coming 2027 National General Election, we are ready. We are prepared as police officers, though we will face other challenges when it comes to the actual polling dates.
“New Ireland is no longer like it was five years ago in 2022. Things have changed. We have seen evictions in the nation’s capital and other parts of Papua New Guinea. People who cannot make it in Port Moresby or elsewhere due to evictions are trying to return to their localities because of various issues, including tribal fights, economic challenges, and other personal reasons,” PPC Beli said.
PPC Beli said that despite these challenges and the increase in population, the police are raising awareness by working closely with local leaders to identify unfamiliar individuals in the province.
He added that police officers are ready and will also work closely with other stakeholders and business houses to ensure a safe and secure election in 2027.
