Chimbu recount time further extended

A further extension of 32 days has been allowed by the National Court for the Electoral Commission to complete the Chimbu Regional seat recount.

This is the second extension allowed by the court, after recount results were initially due on February 8 in the National Court.

The counting was delayed over disputes on counting venue preference by supporters. 

The recount results of the Chimbu Regional seat was extended from February, and due in court today, 3rd April. 

However counting continues at the National Sports Institute in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province.

Lawyers for the Electoral Commission filed a motion, seeking another extension of time from the court to complete the recount.

This motion was unopposed in court. They were granted an extension of a further 32 days.

The Waigani National Court was told the recount is still in Primary count stages, and will be heading into quality check of the ballot papers soon.

The Electoral Commission has been given until 6 May, 9:30am to return to court with recount results for verification.

The Waigani National Court upheld an election petition filed by former Chimbu Governor Noah Kool against the win of Governor Micheal Dua in the 2017 national election and ordered for a recount.

Governor Dua won with a margin of over 11,000 votes in 2017, and remains governor pending the recount. 

Author: 
Sally Pokiton