Southern Highlands Governor William Powi has called on all candidates and supporters in the province to remain calm and support the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission (PNGEC) as it proceeds with the 2025 Local-level Government (LLG) elections.
Mr Powi acknowledged the concerns raised by communities over the delays in the election schedule but said it was encouraging to see the process now back on track.
“After several postponements this year, it is heartening to see the process back on track. I wish every candidate well and call on supporters to promote peace, respect, and civility throughout the polling period,” he said.
The governor reminded the public that the PNGEC was an independent constitutional office mandated to conduct both National and LLG elections under the Constitution and the Organic Law on National and Local-level Government Elections.
Writs for the 2025 LLG elections were issued in April. However, operational challenges led to a revision of the initial mid-July polling dates, moving polling to late September to ensure a credible and orderly process.
“Timetables can be adjusted when necessary to safeguard the integrity of the process; our duty is to support that effort,” he added.
Governor Powi stressed that LLG councils play a vital role in strengthening democracy and ensuring basic services reach families and communities.
“LLG councils are the front line of democracy and service delivery. When these elections are run well and accepted by our people, schools function better, roads and health posts are maintained, and confidence grows in government at every level,” he said.
The governor also called on the Southern Highlands Provincial Elections Steering Committee, chaired by Provincial Administrator David Kelma, to continue supporting PNGEC and work closely with provincial authorities, police, churches, and community leaders to ensure peaceful elections.
He pledged his office’s full cooperation with Election Manager Mrs. Grace Wong to deliver a free, fair, and safe election across the province.
Responding to questions over discrepancies in the 2022 and 2025 common roll figures, Governor Powi said it was the sole responsibility of the PNGEC to verify and determine the most accurate roll for use.
“We are aware of discrepancies arising from the 2025 roll update in some areas. I urge patience and respect for due process as the Commission addresses these matters. Our responsibility as leaders and citizens is to cooperate, not disrupt,” he stated.
Governor Powi further assured that any logistical assistance required by PNGEC would be provided lawfully and within available resources.
“Let us show the nation that Southern Highlands can set the standard—calm, united, and committed to the rule of law,” he said.