PNG Electoral Commission issues warning

PNG Electral Commissioner. Andrew Trawen. EMTV Photo

PNG’s Electoral Commissioner, Andrew Trawen says those found to be in possession of PNGEC property will be charged.

Commissioner Trawen was responding to claims made by losing candidates of the Madang by-election, that about 10 thousand marked ballot papers that were discovered.

The Electoral Commissioner was at government house this afternoon to return the writs for Madang by-election to acting Governor General, Ano Pala.

 Also present was member elect for Madang Nixon Duban.

Formalities started off with the arrival of the acting GG, then the returning of the writs and the acting GG meeting with the member and Commissioner Trawen with his staff.

It was later in a press conference that commissioner Trawen responded to questions about allegations that were raised by losing candidates.

Last week losing candidates made claims about discovering marked ballot papers.

Commissioner Trawen said he is unaware of these marked ballot papers. He said these are serious allegations and if found to be untrue, he would recommend for criminal charges to be laid against those making these allegations.

Those who disagree with the results for this by-election have been called on to bring their grievances to court.

Mr.Trawen said he is in the process of asking the Police Commissioner for an investigation into these claims.

This afternoon’s return of writs was the final for this year. The only outstanding by-election to continue into the new year is for Kairuku-Hiri.

PNG Today / EMTV