By DALCY LULUA
THE Electoral Commission has officially returned the Writ for the Central Bougainville by-election, formally confirming Jimmy Miringtoro as the duly elected Member of Parliament.
In a brief but significant ceremony at Government House in Port Moresby today, Electoral Commissioner Simon Sinai presented the Writ to Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae.
The by-election was held to fill the vacant Central Bougainville Open seat following the passing of former MP Fr Simon Dumarinu.
Following a peaceful polling and counting period, former MP Jimmy Miringtoro was declared the winner and now returns to Parliament with a renewed mandate from the people.
Commissioner Sinai commended the smooth conduct of the by-election and expressed gratitude to electoral officials, polling staff, security personnel, and the people of Central Bougainville for their cooperation and commitment to democratic principles.
He noted that the return of the Writ marks the formal end of the by-election process and paves the way for Miringtoro to be sworn in and resume his duties in Parliament.
Miringtoro, who previously served as the Member for Central Bougainville, now re-enters the national political arena.
The Electoral Commission will continue preparations for upcoming electoral events and has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering free, fair, and credible elections throughout the country.