If you want to make money, you should stay out of this race and compete in the business sector.
This was the remark from the country’s first Prime Minister and retired East Sepik Governor, Sir Michael Somare, to intending candidates.
“My counsel to those 4000-plus who are intending candidates, I hope you are sincere to the cause,” he said.
“If you want to change the lives of our people through elective leadership then stay out of business.
“Parliament is not the place to enrich yourself.”
Sir Michael challenged all Papua New Guineans to take ownership of the election and not disrupt the election process.
“On the eve of the 2017 general elections, I encourage voters to choose your representative to parliament wisely,” Sir Michael said.
The election writs will be issued by the Governor-General on 20 April.
When writs are issued, the nomination period will open to intending candidates.
Nomination closes at 4pm on April 27.
There will be 8 weeks of campaign period from April 20 – June 23.
Polling will run from June 24 – July 8.
Return of the Writs of the election must be before July 24.