NGE 2022 – Distribution of Ballot Papers

TWELVE million ballot papers are now ready for distribution to the 22 provinces in PNG in preparation for polling on the 4th of July. Six million will be distribution for open seats while another six million will be distributed for the Provincial seats. The Election materials arrived from Australia on Saturday (June 18) afternoon. 

PNG Electoral Commissioner, Simon Sinai visited the Air Transport Wing in Port Moresby on Saturday 18th June 2022 to witness the final packaging of all Election items for distribution. He thanked the Australian Government for assisting in the delivery of the election materials. 

The first ballot papers left for Daru in Western province signifying the start of the ballot paper distribution. The operation is being supported by the Australian Defence Force in consultation with PNG’s joint security forces. 

The Electoral Commissioner appealed for cooperation from all sectors in the country reiterating that the Commission is doing its best under trying circumstances to bring the elections to the people. He said there are 5.7 million registered voters according to the enrolments conducted in the electorates.

In a statement issued recently, Mr Sinai said polling will be conducted in 6396 wards covering 346 local level government council areas across the country.

More than 47,000 temporary election workers (TEWs) will be engaged to work with the 5963 polling teams to conduct polling throughout the country. The Commissioner said the number of polling teams have been increased to ensure polling is conducted in all scheduled polling places and results delivered within the required time.

One day polling will be mainly conduced in the Highlands and in National Capital District while there will be one day polling in parts of West Sepik, Madang, Morobe, New Ireland, West New Britain, Bougainvlle, Western, Central and Milne Bay. 

For the first time the Electoral Commission will have gender split polling booths where separate voting lines will be created for men and women to ensure everyone gets the chance to cast their votes. Arrangements have also been made for People with disabilities to cast their votes.

Around 11,022 polling booths will be open on Monday 4th of July starting at 8am in 9625 different polling locations around the country.