PNG Electoral Commissioner Patilias Gamato is warning candidates against early campaigning before the 2017 National Election Writs are issued.
“It’s against the law to do early campaigning; campaigns are done after the Writs are issued.
“I am appealing to all the intending candidates and leaders (current parliamentarians) not to engage in early campaigns because it is illegal. They must be responsible and stop early campaigns.”
Gamato is calling on candidates who will contest the 111 seats to be vigilant.
The country’s judiciary system – Court of Disputed Returns - is the only arm of government where losing candidates can appeal to dispute election results, be it for early campaigning or other election-related matters.