Elections

Juffa recently travelled to Henganofi, Okapa, Kainantu and Lufa in Eastern Highlands to endorse his candidates.

Thousands of people gathered to hear Juffa speak on issues pertaining to land ownership, economy and the future of the country.

Juffa spoke passionately about the need for assertive leadership which is needed to protect PNG’s interest.

He also highlighted the lack of such leadership that had seen PNG lose control of its resource economy and thus its ability to design a prosperous and secure future.

The executives of PNGCWU on Monday paid a courtesy visit to former prime minister and candidate for Moresby North West electorate, Sir Mekere Morauta with a bold message that the state of PNG’s national affairs were worsening and the situation demanded most urgent remedial actions.

PNGCWU President Nug Mamtirin told Sir Mekere that his return to politics has sent a message of hope to public and private sectors workers, self-employed people and ordinary citizens PNG-wide.

“My first and foremost reason to re-enter national politics is because of public demand and pressure from people in all walks of life including villagers, public servants, private sectors workers, parliamentarians, even MPs from within the ruling PNC party.

“I owe it to PNG and its citizens for educating me to university level, first Secretary for  Finance at the age of 25 in 1973, Managing Director of PNG Banking Corporation (now BSP), Governor of Bank of PNG, State minister, Prime Minister and Leader of Opposition.

The former public servant and deputy provincial administrator socio-economic services, is one of 25 candidates contesting the seat in East New Britain Province during this national elections.

Former Prime Minister and Kokopo MP Sir Rabbie Namaliu and Lamur’s elder brother William Lamur are throwing their support on him.

Lamur, 51, from Ralubang Village in the Bitapaka LLG is married with two children and has been preparing for two years to contest in this election period.

In a press conference on Monday in Port Moresby, Sir Mekere flanked by NCD Regional candidate Jamie Maxtone-Graham said the security preparations were not yet ready.

He claimed that the police are still waiting for their election funds to carry out their security operations.

Sir Mekere said reliable sources in the police force said they were due to receive K8 million last month but nothing  has happened.

Loop News was also given a copy of a document from the Police Department stating the planned  release of funds  which has never eventuated.

That was announced by Prime Minister and parliamentary leader Peter O'Neill in Port Moresby this morning. He was speaking at the PNC convention launching the party campaign to maintain its grip on power.

The major party in the coalition government have endorsed 93 candidates for the 111 seat Parliament.

"Our government will give power to provinces that can manage its public services and finances (after the election)," O'Neill said.

He said the turn-out of the crowd signified what his government  and administration, the National Government and development partners have done for the Province.

He thanked the churches for their contribution to service delivery through Church-based organizations (CBO’s ) and since before Independence until today.

“Churches have played a big role in shaping the service delivery for this nation,” he said.

Manus Election Manager, Sponsa Navi, told Loop PNG that both current members of the province have not yet nominated.

He said in the Regional seat, 10 candidates have nominated while 12 candidates have nominated to run for the Open seat.

Those who nominated for the Manus Regional Seat include;  Ken Kuso, George Sikin, Francis Kari Masu, Qwentan Kiliwi Chollaii, wife of former Madang Governor Jim Kas - Dr Theresa Kamau Kas, Elijah Kireng Pokarop, Dr Hilda H Polume, Leslie Roai, former Governor Michael Sapau :and Martin Kele-eh Warek.

The intending candidates claimed that the Provincial Returning Officer Rossie Pandihau had been changed by Deputy Administrator Stefan Husik at the 11th hour.

They are claiming that the new PRO could not have been gazetted and so there is a question of whether or not any decision he makes, such as accepting nominations of intending candidates is legally binding.

However, Gamato clarified that the changes were not made at the 11^th hour as the changes were made on March 30, 2017.

Lae metropolitan commander, Chief Superintendent Anthony Wagambie Jr, has urged them to be mature and to campaign without resorting to bribery.

“Voters and campaign managers are not to give sweet talks and encourage candidates to spend carelessly to entice voters,” said the police boss.

“Candidates and those that campaign must stand firm and campaign fairly as true and honest leaders.”

Wagambie stressed that police personnel will be out in numbers to ensure that the elections are conducted within stated boundaries.