A total of 54 ballot boxes of Pogera-Paiela Open Seat in Enga province containing 67,800 ballot papers were pre-counted this morning with polling to commence tomorrow.
Enga Provincial Election Manager Anton Iamau is on the ground to oversee the process.
A total of 27 candidates has been nominated including the son of the late member, Gidron Maso Karipe and former Lagaip Pogera Open member Nixon Koeka Mangape.
Among the known candidate is Our Pati candidate Dickson Pakiru Pundi, People’s Party Dr. Sam Yockopua, United Resource Party’s Salas David Aiyala and People’s First Party candidate Fredrick Ipara.
Western End Commander and State of Emergency Controller Chief Superintendent Joseph Tondop issued a stern warning to all candidates to control their supporters and work with the police to ensure a safe and peaceful by election for the new district.
He ordered that no unnecessary vehicle movements will be allowed in and around the Paiam township area and along the main Highlands Highway when polling commences tomorrow.
CSP Tondop said that random road blocks will be conducted to ensure no illegal activities happen along the highway during polling.
He assured the government that the combined security force team on the ground will ensure a free, fair and safe election.
