As the 2022 National Elections nears, the impartiality and integrity required by PNG Electoral Commission (PNGEC) officials to uphold the constitutional guarantee of free, fair and safe elections has never been more crucial.
This was the message shared with provincial election managers at a one-day workshop held in Port Moresby by Transparency International PNG (TIPNG) in partnership with the PNGEC recently.
With only two months before the start of elections, and delays on key electoral processes, TIPNG is working with partners to bolster mechanisms of electoral conduct including the integrity of decision making by constitutional office holders. TIPNG Director, Richard Kassman told workshop participants to take note that the Constitution speaks of Rights and Responsibilities. He said to see it as a contract between the State and her People.
Kassman added that the Constitution of PNG promises its people to deliver free and fair elections. It promises one vote per person, that citizens must cast their votes in confidence and not to be forced or be placed under duress.
Kassman reminded the participants that the Office of the Electoral Commissioner is a constitutional office which should not be directed by other departmental heads. In the conduct of the National Elections, Provincial Election Managers can work with Provincial Administrators and Provincial Police Commanders, but they do not take direction from these offices.
The workshop was opened by PNG Electoral Commissioner, Simon Sinaiand it was attended by Electoral Managers from; Morobe, East New Britain, New Ireland, Milne Bay, Central, NCD, Eastern Highlands and Jiwaka.