Two candidates remain in the race for the new electorate, Hiri-Koiari as the nation counts down to the return of Writs.

The final exclusion will be of independent candidate, Willie Kaeaka who polled 5,613 votes after the 32nd exclusion.

Kaeaka’s votes will be distributed to leading candidate, Keith Iduhu (NGP) on 12, 573 votes and second on the ladder with 8599 votes, Steven John Manai (URP) 

As of exclusion 32, the absolute majority stands at 13, 403 votes.

A total of 35 candidates contested for the Hiri-Koiari Open Seat after a split in the electoral boundaries from then Kairuku-Hiri Open.

The new district now has 3 LLGs and 60 wards.

Hiri-Koiari Returning Officer, Leo Ameua told Inside PNG the delays in counting are a result of grievances by counting officials’ outstanding allowances.

“Some of the counting officials who were polling officials were not paid polling allowances and this caused the delays in counting,” said RO Ameua.