Only 75pc of writs expected tomorrow

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ELECTORAL Commissioner Patilias Gamato says he hopes to have 80 to 85 of writs returned tomorrow when he goes up to Government House.
He had asked for an extension to last Monday’s deadline for the return of writs which was granted by Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae, pictured, on Sunday.
But he said on Monday that counting was still in progress in some electorates and the results could miss tomorrow’s deadline.
He said counting in these electorates would be allowed to continue.
The first sitting of Parliament is scheduled for next Friday.
As of 6pm yesterday, 71 seats had been declared, with 40 seats left.
“Hopefully by tomorrow, we should have 80 to 85 writs (returned),” Gamato said.
According to the official programme, the first sitting of Parliament will start at 10am next Friday.
Meanwhile, various political parties are holding retreats with potential coalition partners in an effort to form the government.
The ruling People’s National Congress Party, leading with 23 seats, is holding a retreat with its coalition partners in Alotau, Milne Bay.
Another group, led by incumbent Bulolo MP Sam Basil’s Pangu Pati, is camping in Eastern Highlands.