WHP

Electoral Commissioner, Patilias Gamato, says polling will go ahead after the Provincial Election Manager advised  those who raised issues that the 2017 final roll was not too different to the former.

Jiwaka Province also goes to the polls on Tuesday.

Initiall y some polling venues wanted to be changed, however, Gamato said according the organic law where a polling place is gazzetted it cannot be changed or abolishmed before the issue of writs or before the writs are returned.

In a media statement the CIC said that a checkpoint set up at Kondapina has rejected about 370 tonnes of cherry coffee on a daily basis from Dei Council due to CBB infestation.

General Manager, Steven Tumae, said despite concerted efforts with the National Agriculture, Quarantine & Inspection Authority (NAQIA) the pest continues to spread.

“It is tough dealing with cherry traders daily but they do not have a choice and comply with personnel at the checkpoint,” said Tumae.

The meeting, which began yesterday and ends today, will include stakeholders from Western Highlands and Chimbu.

The CIC will be presenting an update on the CBB incursion and measures they and other authorities will be implementing and will also allow for feedback and suggestions as a way forward for the benefit of all players in the industry.