Lagaip writ returned, supporters welcome MP-elect

THE writ for the Lagaip supplementary election was returned to acting Governor-General Sir Gibbs Salika at Government House yesterday by Electoral Commissioner Simon Sinai.
National Planning and Finance Minister Rainbo Paita, returning officer Beto Pokale and the MP-elect for Lagaip Aimos Joseph Akem were present.
Sinai said the return of the writs was supposed to be no later than Nov 17, but the date was extended based on “special circumstances” to Nov 30. He said since becoming commissioner, he swore to make decisions that would not cost lives.
“There are processes and procedures in place, so I send the ballot box and ballot papers with my officers to conduct elections, we are only trying to do our job,” he said.
“This is the first of its kind where three ROs had to be appointed in a by-election, for an extension of time made for the return of writs based on special circumstances in a supplementary election, and for a third RO.
“I told him it was his call as I did not want his blood on my hands and he said he would do his job without fear or favour so I must commend Pokale for his bravery and courage in seeing this by-election through.
“Polling went peacefully, but for counting, we tried to make a fair decision, taking into consideration everyone’s views and also the safety of my staff, but we have passed that and today, I present the newly-declared MP, for Lagaip, Aimos Joseph Akem.”
Akem arrived in Port Moresby yesterday with Pokale and was received by Paita.
Akem, 40, from Kepelam village in the Pilikambi LLG in Lagaip, thanked Sinai, his staff and security personnel for the completion of the election.
He pledged to work with all stake holders, “to build a prosperous and inclusive Lagaip electorate, where every individual’s voice is heard, and every dream has the opportunity to flourish”.
Akem is expected to be sworn in today at Parliament House.