The Kairuku Hiri Electorate is now ready for counting.
Returning officer Tabu Vaira confirmed that counting will commence on Wednesday, 12 July after a delay due to the late arrival of a polling team from the Mekeo LLG.
The ballot boxes are currently locked up in two containers at the counting venue at the Bomana CS Gym.
Vaira said the presiding officers submitted their returns today while his team has set up the counting venue in preparation for counting.
Meantime, counting is scheduled to take place from 8am to 11pm every day with only one shift consisting of about 50 counting officials.
“Kairuku Hiri is the biggest electorate in Central Province with four LLGs so we have requested for two counting shifts.
“We have a big task to do of completing counting by next week but we will ask for an extension if we aren’t able to complete counting by July 17,” Vaira said.
Vaira added they have sorted out allowances for officials and security is well guaranteed with the police, defence force and correctional officers on duty.
The Kairuku Hiri Electorate has a total of 27 candidates vying for the seat.