Elections plans progressing with training and awareness programs

With the 2027 National Election fast approaching, the PNG Electoral Commission is prioritizing the update of the Electoral Roll.

Acting Electoral Commissioner, Margaret Vagi, said the Commission is working to ensure that each individual voter must be on the voter roll.

Ms Vagi said officials have begun training and raising awareness about the electoral roll update around the provinces.

“The three-phase exercise commenced last month with the verification of the roll to ensure names and number of eligible voters in each electorate.

“And into the second phase, we have the electoral roll that will be displayed for new voters whose names are not on the roll to come and provide their details,” the acting EC confirmed.

Ms Vagi says training workshops have been conducted in the capital city as well as in the regions for election managers and assistant election managers on fieldwork expectations.

“Fifty percent of that has gone to the provinces. 50 percent we're using it on the documents of big-ticket items like ballot boxes, seals, inks, the voting compartments.

“Claims have been processed, checks raised and then we should purchase some 50 percent of the big-ticket items for provinces.” Vagi said.

Ms Vagi also clarified that additional funding is needed for the third phase of the training for security and media personnel, including the six new electorates with their requirements.