Despite weather, the first lot of teams were deployed to remote locations around the province.
In Bulolo, there was an orderly start to polling in Ward 1 of the Bulolo District where 728 eligible voters are listed on the electoral roll.
Many walked for at least 2 kilometers to get to the polling station at Timini.
Like previous elections, the process was slow. Many voters had been waiting for at least five hours.
While sitting MP, Sam Basil is looking to retain his seat, the Timini area isn’t considered a strong hold.
Demata Mopai is a village leader, he wants a change in the political leadership. His preferences don’t include the sitting MP, Sam Basil.
“I wants change in the leadership,” He said. “My first preference is Jonah Vincent and my second vote will go to Rex Mauri.”
As Scrutinisers kept close watch on the voting, there was still uncertainty by many over their names on the electoral roll.
By the end of polling, many of voters who turned 18 after the 2012 elections will have been be turned away because their names weren’t included.
Earlier this week, Electoral Commissioner, Patillias Gamato, said yet again, they had done the best they could and that there are still faults.
Timini, is near the Hidden Hidden valley mine project site. For voters like Anna Solomon, the mine’s benefits and the political representation in relation to those benefits are determining factors for a candidate’s win.
“I worry about my children who don’t have jobs and opportunities. I want a leader who can address employment and education opportunities.”
Anna Solomon, said there’s been no intimidation but wants to see more women voting over the next 24 hours.
