Highlands region counting begins

Counting in the Highlands Region has commenced in parts of Hela Province.

Counting for Tari-Pori Open electorate commenced today.

After count five, sitting MP, James Marape, is leading with 3,315 votes.

On second place is Jonny Pokaya Philip with 792 votes and Michael Joseph Pajawi on 451 votes.

Counting for Komo-Margarima and Koroba-Kopiago has been disrupted because of the issue of a petition.

Electoral Commissioner Patilias Gamato says additional security personnel have been deployed to provide security at the disrupted venues.

In Eastern Highlands Province, counting will commence on Friday, July 7.

Gamato reported that ballot boxes from Obura-Wonenara electorate were transported to Goroka today.

He said a briefing for candidates is scheduled for tomorrow.

Meantime, Chimbu commenced counting late at 2pm today following issues of shortage of seals and packing plastics, while polling for Western Highlands and Enga will commence on Thursday, July 6. 

Author: 
Quintina Naime