A progressive figure of 2,614 candidates have registered to contest the 2017 National Elections at the close of nominations yesterday.
The Electoral Commission says these are just preliminary figures which will be confirmed and announced by Commissioner Patilias Gamato on Monday.
The Highlands region has the highest number of candidates 852 candidates contesting the 40 seats, Momase region has 719 candidates contesting the 30 seats.
Southern region’s 23 seats will be contested by 716 candidates while in the New Guinea Islands region, 328 will be running for the 17 seats.
East New Britain has 81, Autonomous Region of Bougainville 73, West New Britain 68, Manus 60 and New Ireland 46.
Rabaul open has the least number of candidates contesting the seat.
Returning office Ekonia Walom said nine intending candidates filed the Form 29 (bio form) however only eight filed nominations, including current MP, Dr Allan Marat.
Walom said this is a reflection of maturity and strength among the leaders in the district. No female is contesting this seat.
He said even supporters conducted themselves well during nominations with no truck load of supporters coming into nominate with the candidates compared to the other districts.