2012 elections could see a first in Eastern Highlands

THE Eastern Highlands has recorded some of the highest number of candidates for the nine seats in this year’s elections.
Perhaps it indicates that the political leadership in the province may change.
Among those contes­ting are prominent wo­men leaders and former MPs.
Firstly, a woman candidate has yet to win an election in the highlands.
Is this the year of our “Apo” womenfolk?
Secondly, politics in Eastern Highlands is different.
Former MPs who lost their seat have never been voted back since our first parliament in 1964.
No matter how many times they tried, none succeeded.
Interestingly, the PNC party has endorsed a couple of former MPs in the province.
Thirdly, the province has yet to see a three-term MP for the same seat.
Malcolm Kela-Smith (regional), Benny Allan (Unggai-Bena) and Yawa Silupa (Lufa) are vying for the third consecutive term.
Can they crack a record third term?
I simply cannot wait for the 2012 EHP polling result.

Gerry H Teteh
Mt Hagen