Polling trouble irks EC

 By MALUM NALU

ELECTORAL Commissioner Andrew Trawen has condemned the behaviour of Papua New Guineans who caused trouble in the recent local level government (LLG) elections.

He expressed serious concern yesterday that over the years of elections, especially in the Highlands region, people had conducted illegal practices. 

Trawen was speaking after declaring failed elections for 19 LLGs in six Highlands provinces.

The provinces are Enga, Western Highlands, Jiwaka, Eastern Highlands, Southern Highlands, and Enga with Chimbu being the exception with trouble-free elections.

“This was simply because these instances were isolated and also were not honestly reported by those entrusted with the duties of conducting and protecting the elections and this trend has increased over the years,” Trawen said.

“In the 2013 LLG elections, these electoral offences have increased in number and I am of the view that if I do not take this step to fail the elections for the reasons given, people will never learn and will not take ownership of future elections, be it national or LLG elections.

“We need to put a stop to this sad and dangerous trend for the best interest of the country as a whole.

“If we don’t do something now, the situation would get even worse in future elections in PNG.

“For the Southern Highlands, especially, it seems that they have not learnt from lessons in 2002 and 2003 where similar chaotic circumstances resulted in the cancellation of elections in the province.”

Trawen warned all candidates to take heed of his failing the 19 LLG elections.

“I warn all candidates and their supporters that if there is any civil disobedience as a result of my decision today, this will clearly demonstrate to me that you are not prepared to change your ways,” he said.