EC defers by-election

ELECTORAL Commissioner Patilias Gamato has deferred the Goroka Open by-election following an order issued by State of Emergency Controller David Manning.
It will be held when the national emergency is over.
Gamato confirmed receiving the order yesterday.
“In accordance with the order, I now delay the conduct of the Goroka by-election until after the state of emergency ends on June 2,” Gamato said. Gamato explained that the by-election could not be held now because of the lack of funding.
The seat was won by Henry Ame during the 2017 general election.
But the court ordered that a by-election be held after upholding a petition filed by former MP Bire Kimisopa.
“As a result, I have advised the Head of State not to proceed with the issue of the writ ceremony scheduled for today (yesterday),” Gamato said. Gamato had written to Treasury secretary Dairi Vele on March 4 to allocate K6.39 million for the by-election.
“No funding has come yet.
“Without funds, I cannot advise the governor-general to issue the writ,” Gamato said.
“Once the writ is issued, there’s no turning back or waiting for funds because the constitutional process of electing a MP has begun and must be completed within the time period allowed by law.
“Based on that, I have decided to delay the by-election until after June 2 so we can secure funds from Treasury.”
Vele said: “At this time of the Covid-19 pandemic, Treasury is trying to be mindful of every kina and toea that is going to be spent.
“A previous request provided by electoral commission has provided us with the details.
“We can now finalise the transfer in preparation for the by-election in early June.”