Wakias refutes allegations by Usino-Bundi candidate

Senior PNG Electoral Commission officer David Wakias has responded to recent allegations made by former Madang Governor and Usino-Bundi by-election candidate Peter Yama, who raised concerns over Wakias' involvement in the electoral process.

Yama, speaking on behalf of other candidates, called for Wakias to be removed from the by-election exercise. However, Wakias has dismissed the claims as baseless and without merit.

“There is no justification for Mr Yama’s allegations,” Wakias said.

“I have never been arrested or charged by police over election-related fraud or misconduct.”

Wakias said he was unlawfully terminated in 2019 by then Electoral Commissioner Patilius Gamato, following a dispute over the Southern Highlands Regional Seat during that election.

“Mr Gamato made a Special Circumstance Declaration for the seat without consulting me, even though I was the Election Manager at the time and held the original writ. This frustration led to my termination, which I have since challenged in court,” Wakias said.

He was later reinstated by current Electoral Commissioner Simon Sinai in 2021 and has since served as Acting Assistant Election Manager for West Sepik Province and as Provincial Returning Officer during the 2022 National General Election. Wakias currently holds the position of Assistant Election Manager.

Wakias said he was disappointed that a senior political figure like Yama would make such public accusations.

“It is inappropriate for a senior statesman to make unfounded allegations in the media. Mr. Yama should engage in the political process responsibly and at the appropriate level,” he said, calling on Yama to correct the public statement as the matter is now under review by Commissioner Sinai and the senior management team.

Meanwhile, Returning Officer Terence Baiyo confirmed that Wakias has only been assisting with logistics during the Usino-Bundi by-election and is not involved in decision making.

Madang Provincial Election Manager Sponsa Navi also assured Yama and other candidates that Wakias' involvement in the by-election would be discontinued immediately.