Watchdog asked to allow House to challenge Election fees hike

The Ombudsman Commission has been urged to allow Parliament to deliberate on the proposed increase in election fees before challenging it in court.

Electoral Commissioner, Patilias Gamato said this in relation to the commission's request in the Supreme Court to stop Parliament passing the amendments.

“What I would say Is that it is parliaments property. The bill is now before Parliament so they should let parliament debate.

"If they pass it, then they will have the grounds to go to court and challenge it.

"The parliamentary process should be allowed to continue,” Mr Gamato said.

The Ombudsman Commission has gone to the High Court seeking clarification as to whether or not the proposed amendment to increase the nomination fee from K1000 to K10,000 is constitutional.

NBC News /PNG Today