Maprik MP hails officials for conducting fair elections

Member elect for Maprik John Simon has commended the election officials and security personnel for conducting the elections in Maprik despite not getting paid.

Speaking during his declaration on Saturday, Simon also welcomed his fellow contestants to work in partnership with him to develop Maprik District in East Sepik Province.

"The people of Maprik have spoken because of my leadership," Simon said.

He dedicated his win to all the people of the district and made a commitment to be fair in the delivery of service delivery and infrastructure development.

Simon was declared at 3:20pm in Maprik town yesterday.

The National Alliance candidate was declared after the 20th exclusion with 15, 565 votes, bypassing the 13, 779 absolute majority mark.

Former Maprik MP, Gabriel Kapris finished on second spot with 11, 976 votes.

Kapris was unable to wrestle back the seat from the man who unseated him in the 2012 National Election.

Returning Officer Godfried Sokamia said 39, 977 people voted and only 678 informal votes were found.

Twenty one candidates contested the open seat.

Simon's declaration was witnessed by re-elected member for Wosera Gawi Joseph Yopyyopy.

Author: 
Charles Yapumi