Scrutineers of candidates have been urged to be responsible and avoid unnecessary interference and intimidation of the counting officials.
Electoral Commissioner Patilias Gamato appealed to the scrutineers to do their job properly and understand their role in the process.
Gamato explained that in some places, counting has been significantly delayed after scrutineers raised objections.
He highlighted that scrutineers must understand that under the organic law, they are allowed into the counting centres to scrutinise.
He said scrutineers are welcome in the counting venues as they are part and parcel of the panel but they should stick to their jobs and not play the role of security personnel and election officials.
Gamato also appealed to everyone involved in this election, including the candidates, supporters and the election officials at the counting venues, to understand their roles and responsibilities.
He said progress has been made and counting is picking up but there are reports where unnecessary behaviour are causing delays.
“We are at the crucial stage of the election cycle so everyone needs to take their role seriously and refrain from activities and behaviour that slow down the counting process.
“We have to make sure we stay on our track and all the stakeholders share the responsibility.
“The election committee cannot deliver this election in a timely manner without the support of all concerned,” Gamato said.
Gamato added that everyone has a duty to deliver the 2017 elections fairly and safely to the country by 24 July, when the writs are returned to the Governor-General.
(Picture by KENNEDY BANI)