PM lauds peaceful conduct of nominations

 PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill has welcomed the peaceful conduct of nominations for the local level government elections in the past week.

O’Neill said reports from the Electoral Commission indicated that the process had been very peaceful.

“We are happy that the nomination period has been very quiet and very peaceful,” he told a media briefing.

“We encourage people to make their own determination as to who is to lead them at that level. We will work closely with them.

“Our seriousness in working with them is indicated by our preparations in the budget. Huge sums given to the provinces, LLGs and districts are a clear indication of our commitment to working with this level of government, and service delivery throughout the country.

“We look forward to a very peaceful election. As a government, we are not supporting any political candidates on the ground.

“We’re trying to allow the people to make their choices, so that we work with the leaders they chose. This is what we are encouraging as a government.”