by Eric Haurupma – EM TV News, Port Moresby
PNG Electoral Commissioner, Patilias Gamato, has condemned early election campaigns by candidates in the country.
He said any campaigning made before the issue of writs for the 2017 general elections is illegal.
His statement serves as a warning to intending candidates engaging in early campaigns across the country.
The Commissioner said anyone caught campaigning in the streets can be sued.
He said election campaigns at this time prior to the issue of writs are opposed to the Organic Law on National and Local Level Government elections.
NCD Governor, Powes Parkop, has also encouraged his rival candidates to refrain from campaigning at this time.
According to the Organic Law on National and Local Level Government elections, all campaigns before the issue of writs are deemed illegal.