LLG election officers stranded in bad weather

 By GABRIEL FITO

THE Electoral Commission office in Vanimo, West Sepik, is still waiting for the return of election officials from six local level government areas in the remote Vanimo Green, Telefomin and Nuku districts.

Provincial election manager Martin Anska said prolonged rain and cloud cover in the area was preventing a chartered plane from going into these areas after the close of nominations last Friday.

He said communication through VHF radio was difficult and they were still waiting for statistics from these areas before they could release the number of candidates contesting the 13 LLG presidents’ seats and council candidates in the respective LLG areas. 

“At the moment we do not know how many candidates are contesting the various LLGs and wards in this election,” Anska said

“It is a bit difficult here where some LLGs and districts are only accessible by plane. 

“We have been waiting for the weather to clear up but will give another try when the plane returns from Kiunga.”

He added that the assistant returning officers were awaiting the charter at different areas.

Meanwhile, 29 candidates are vying for the Vanimo town mayor’s seat which was left vacant after incumbent Peter Yemin left to contest the general election last year.

Anska said the candidates were allowed to do the order of draw themselves after close of nomination.