KAIRUKU-HIRI POLLING SET

The Electoral Commission says, preparations for polling in the Kairuku-Hiri by-election in Central province, is set for next Saturday.

Electoral Commissioner, Andrew Trawen says, transportation and election materials like ballot boxes, voting compartments, indelible ink and candidates posters are all set, with ballot papers printed and stored away.

Mr. Trawen says, 152 polling officials will undergo training on January 14 and 15. 

He states, training of polling officials for Mekeo and Kairuku L-L-G's will be conducted at the Bereina Council Chambers, while that for Hiri and Koiari L-L-G's will take place at Kilakila Community Hall and Laloki High School, respectively. 

Mr. Trawen says, Provincial Police Commander, Inspector Laimo Asi, has engaged 205 officers to provide security for polling and counting. 

The Electoral Commissioner says, counting will be held at the P-N-G Institute of Public Administration Hall at Waigani suburb, with the venue already paid for. 

Mr. Trawen says, electronic counting will be used in the Kairuku-Hiri by-election

The Kairuku-Hiri by election, follows the ousting of Paru Aihi, through a successful election petition by losing candidate Peter Isoaimo, on grounds of bribery to win votes.

The writ will be returned on February 21st 2014.

ONE PNG / NBC