A 26-year-old student has put his university studies on hold to contest the 2017 National Election in East Sepik Province.
Israel Salimbari (Box 19) has withdrawn from his third year studies at the PNG University of Technology to contest for the Yangoru-Saussia Open seat, held by Minister for Trade, Commerce and Industry Richard Maru.
Speaking to Loop PNG, a confident Salimbari said he has the support from mothers and youths in the district and is a top five candidate.
He is one of many university students who have lifted their hands to try politics after going on strike last year regarding the country’s economy and calls for a change of leadership in the National Government.
“I am willing to work with other intending candidates for betterment of Yangoru-Saussia, not for myself or to build my empire, and I represent all the Yangoru-Saussia university students who sacrificed their time last year,” Salimbari said.
He is running under the PNG Constitutional Democratic Party.
“It’s our (party) concern to ensure that our Constitution protects our democracy at all times,” Salimbari said.
The party’s three main policy platforms are; good leadership and governance, provide prudent economy management and improve quality of life.
Sixteen candidates are contesting for the Yangoru-Saussia Open seat.