Gamato clarifies SHP Governor’s victory

The Electoral Commissioner, Patilias Gamato, has clarified that the decision to declare William Powi, as Southern Highlands Governor, has been done within the constitution.

Gamato made this clarification after being allegedly accused by SHP candidates claiming that the proper process was not followed to declare Powi.

In a press conference over the weekend, the SHP regional candidates pointed out that the province is not accepting the declaration because the democratic process in electing a leader was hijacked by the electoral commission.

The candidates along with counting officials, scrutinizers and their supporters earlier stated that they rejected the Electoral Commission’s Declaration of William Powi as the Governor elect for the province.

However, the Electoral Commissioner told Loop PNG that if all electorates were given the same timing and opportunity to complete their election, then SHP cannot have it their own way.  

He said it was those same regional candidates who are instigating the issues in SHP.  

Gamato added that he made the decision to declare Powi under special circumstances as required under section 175 of the Election laws.  

“As I said they cannot have it their own ways.  The laws are very clear.”

“They took me to Court and filed 4 Applications but the National Court dismissed all cases including a contempt case against me.”  

He said it's the electoral process further reiterating that it's a very difficult situation so he made that decision adding that they cannot have it their own ways but abide by the laws.  

Gamato said the situation has now become a law and order situation when properties and lives are destroyed and he is calling on the National Government through the NEC to declare a State of Emergency in SHP and investigate those regional candidates who are instigating the issues.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Author: 
Freddy Mou
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