Counting for the Kairuku-Hiri Open seat has been suspended for an indefinite period.
Counting officials stopped the elimination process after exclusion 17 over nonpayment of their allowances.
Counting was officially suspended at 3pm today by Kairuku-Hiri returning officer Tabu Vaira.
Vaira said at the moment, he cannot do much as he has already advised the Electoral Commission about the issue.
He stated that counting will resume on Wednesday morning however, this will depend on the counting officials if they decide to continue and if their issue is addressed.
The ballot boxes were sealed by Vaira, witnessed by the scrutineers.
Results for the top five after elimination 17:
Kairuku-Hiri Open - after elimination 17
|
CANDIDATE |
PARTY |
TALLY |
|
Peter Isoaimo |
National Alliance |
13,893 |
|
Paru Aihi |
People's National Congress |
10,670 |
|
Steven John Manai |
PANGU |
7,150 |
|
Scott Boio Morata |
Independent |
5,134 |
|
Gabriel Nicholas |
People's Progress Party |
4,815 |
The total ballot papers remaining in count are 56,847.
10 candidates are left in the race.
(Picture by KENNEDY BANI)