NGI is ready for polls, says N’dranou

By REBECCA KUKU
THE New Guinea Islands region is ready for this year’s general election nomination of candidates today, commander Assistant Commissioner Perou N’dranou says.
“We had started pre-election security operations last month,” he added.
“Manus, New Ireland and East New Britain have already launched their operations, and we will soon launch the West New Britain operations.
“We will now go into Phase 2, that is to provide security for and during the nomination period (from today to May 19),” he told The National.
N’dranou said despite the recent fights in the region, the issue was addressed and the region was ready for the general election.
He appealed to electoral hopefuls who would be going around with supporters to ensure that they behaved.
“If you want to raise your hand as a leader, then you have to start now. Not after the election, if you are elected. Show your leadership qualities.
“Do what you are supposed to do and nominate, campaign, but do so as a leader.
“Cooperate and work with us to deliver a peaceful, free and fair election for Papua New Guineans to exercise their democratic rights every five years,” he added.
N’dranou said Mobile Squads 17, 18, and 19 stationed in the region would be providing security support for the region.