Mr Sinai said this after intending candidates for Kompiam-Ambum Open in Enga Province, disputed the appointment of the district’s returning officer, claiming conflict of interest.
He said although the intending candidates have a right to petition, appointed returning officers will not be changed.
Last Thursday, intending candidates for Wabag Open also petitioned the election manager to change the district’s returning officer, whom they allege is a relative of the sitting MP.
The intending candidates of Wabag and Kompiam-Ambum suggested that the Electoral Commission consider swapping the ROs from each district to avoid ‘wantok’ system and vote rigging.
However, Enga Election Manager, Anton Iamau, explained that only the Electoral Commissioner has the power to make and revoke appointments.
Electoral Commissioner, Simon Sinai told Loop PNG that changes to Returning Officer will not take place.
No changes to Returning Officers: Sinai
BY: Loop Author 14:48, May 16, 2022
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