LLG election proceeding smoothly despite ballot paper shortage in Central: PPC

Police in Central Province have confirmed that the Local Level Government [LLG] election is progressing smoothly, despite reports from several polling areas of ballot paper shortages compared to the number of eligible voters.

Central Provincial Police Commander [PPC], Acting Superintendent Joseph Salle, said police officers are providing assistance at polling locations only when necessary. He confirmed that three people have been arrested and detained at the Fifteen Mile Police Station for allegedly hijacking ballot papers.

According to PPC Salle, the incident stemmed from the limited number of ballot papers available relative to the number of eligible voters. He said this is an issue the Electoral Commission needs to address and resolve.

“I am pleased with how the people of Central Province are conducting themselves during the election,” PPC Salle said. “Although some eligible voters have raised concerns about their names not appearing on the common roll and the shortage of ballot papers, they have shown understanding and continued with the voting process, which is now nearing completion.

"Most ward councilors have already been declared, while voting is still underway in a few remaining wards. Once all ward councilors are declared, election officials will proceed to count votes for the LLG President."

PPC Salle further confirmed that there have been no major incidents reported, except for one ward in the Hiri-Koiari LLG area.

Polling will continue throughout the week and is expected to conclude once all wards have completed voting.