Electoral Commissioner Patilias Gamato says there is a case before the court to disqualify the current Hagen Open Returning Officer.
“Their matter is in the Supreme Court and is expected back in court on Thursday,” Gamato told Loop PNG, referring to the action by candidates and supporters disrupting flights into the Western Highlands capital this afternoon.
“These are the same people who filed the case against me and are now taking the law into their own hands to close the Kagamuga Airport.”
A passenger who travelled from neighbouring Southern Highlands Province, Brian Waffi confirmed with Loop PNG that the candidates and their supporters were sitting on the tarmac and protesting.
Meanwhile, Air Niugini in a media statement said, it has suspended its afternoon flight, PX 886 to Mt Hagen due to unrest.
“The airline is closely monitoring the situation and will advise its valued passengers as to when it should resume services.
“We regret the inconvenience caused, however the situation is beyond the airline’s control.
“Safety is always of paramount importance in Air Niugini’s operations” the statement said.
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