Aussie, NZ experts help prepare staff for poll

 EXPERTS from Australia and New Zealand are working with the PNG Government and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville Government (ABG) to help prepare them for the elections this year.

Australian High Commissioner Deborah Stokes said the technical experts sent earlier this month would work with the Bougainville Electoral Commission (BEC) staff in Buka, Arawa and Buin. 

Stokes said their assistance included training, election operations, electoral roll database, logistics, procurement and voter awareness.

She said the ABG requested for technical assistance after consultation with the PNG Electoral Commission.

 “As part of a multi-national effort, Australia’s assistance will support efforts by the BEC to undertake credible and transparent elections,” Stokes said.

New Zealand High Commissioner Tony Fautua said his country recognised the challenges faced by the Bougainville government and was pleased to respond to BEC’s request. 

The team will be in Bougainville for about four months, until the end of the election period.