Abel likely to retain Alotau Open seat

By HELEN TARAWA
Alotau Open MP Charles Abel, is likely to retain his seat as the elimination process begins, election manager Dadu Daga says.
Daga told The National that the Esa’ala electorate was the first in Milne Bay to complete counting and incumbent MP, Davis Steven, the Minister for Civil Aviation, was declared yesterday.
Counting in Samarai-Murua electorate was progressing but Kiriwina-Goodenough was disrupted for about three days because unhappy supporters of candidates damaged properties. But counting resumed yesterday.
“We have security personnel on the ground to assure that things are under control and  counting recommenced today (yesterday),” Daga said.
“Counting in Milne Bay faced some disruptions caused by candidates and their scrutineers.
“We are hoping to complete by this weekend, but if the need arises for an extension, we will request that from Electoral Commissioner Patilias Gamato.”
Daga said counting for the regional seat had started, with 52 boxed yet to be counted but the target was to finish them this weekend.
He said they were aiming to complete all counting by July 20.