Another delay for recount

By LUKE KAMA
THE judicial recount for the Chimbu provincial seat is yet to start in Goroka, Eastern Highlands, because the container with ballot papers is still in Kundiawa, according to Governor Michael Dua.
Dua rubbished media reports that claimed the counting had started at the National Sports Institute in Goroko on Monday.
“We have great respect for the media and the important role they play in our national development,” he said. “But it is also equally important that they must ascertain the facts before they report because any misleading report can cause social disorder in the community and the society.”
Dua said a media report that the ballot papers were transported to Goroka for the recount was false and incorrect.
“The ballot papers are still in Kundiawa and one of the issues now in Goroka is that we have the National Court ordering a by-election for the Goroka Open and as well, court case concerning the Eastern Highlands provincial seat,” Dua said.
“So the security issues on the ground in Goroka is volatile and bringing recount for Chimbu into Goroka again might ignite a bigger security issue and that is something I am concerned with, and the police and the PNG Electoral Commission must be conscious.”
Dua made it clear that there were thousands of illegal ballot papers floating around during the 2017 national election and urged security personnel engaged in the recount to ensure it was conducted transparently. “The recount must be scrutinised properly so that it is done transparently to respect and uphold the wish of the Chimbu people during the 2017 national election,” he said.
Electoral Commissioner Patilias Gamato said he was waiting for his officers to provide him with updates of the current situation and progress to conduct the recount.
The Waigani National Court on Nov 27 upheld an election petition filed by former Governor Noah Kool and ordered a recount for the provincial seat.