There is no need for curfews or alcohol bans during the polling period in East New Britain Province.
“Based on past experiences, there were no problems at all,” ENB provincial police commander, Joseph Tabali, told Loop PNG.
However, he is anticipating a few issues from Kokopo, especially during the counting period.
“Rabaul and Gazelle were okay during their candidates’ forum (during the campaign period). But for Kokopo, other candidates and supporters started intimidating their rivals. This happened while candidates were on stage, presenting their party platforms.”
Nevertheless, the PPC says his intel officers are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to tackle anything.
525 security personnel are involved in the East New Britain polling. This consists of 30 Correctional Services personnel, regular police officers and special constables.
The province has four districts: Pomio, Rabaul, Kerevat and Kokopo. One-day polling for Kokopo starts on Tuesday, 27 June, while other electorates have already started.
The 14 days of nationwide polling started on Saturday, June 24, and will end on 8 July.
Voters can access the polling dates and venues on the PNG Electoral Commission website - http://bit.ly/2sAZ0I5