A two day training for Returning Officers and Assistant Returning Officers is currently underway at Hotel Genesis in Kimbe.
Over 15 election officials for the three open seats are participating.
West New Britain Provincial Returning Officer Emily Kelton said the two day training is very important before polling commences on the 4th of July.
“These are sensitive areas to consider during elections. I believe we have experienced officers being appointed as Returning Officers and Assistant Returning Officers. The outcome of the election in the province will be determined if these officers conduct their duty according to election laws”, said PRO Kelton.
The first day of training focused on polling. Day two training will begin with polling and then counting. This will also include mock exercises on handling ballot boxes, recording of information and other election related businesses.
According to PRO Kelton, all election appointed officers must know their roles and responsibilities. She said issues always rise when officials including scrutineers avoid or tend to say or do wrong things.
Kelton also further stated that the ARO’s and RO’s will return to their constituents and conduct training for polling officials.
She said despite the limited time frame, election officials are geared towards conducting a fair and transparent election in West New Britain.
“I plan to also conduct another training for scrutineers and candidates next Monday. They too have to understand the integral process of election especially during polling and counting,” said Kelton.
The participants of the two day training were also warned by the Chairman of the Provincial Election Steering Committee Robert Dau.
Chairman Dau told the ROs and PROs to distant them from candidates and supporters.
“Do not engage yourself or show allegiance to any intending candidate or their supporters. You play a sensitive role in the election process and must conduct yourself in a transparent and honest matter. Be accountable for any word or action you take, “said Dau.
Dau highlighted the essence of better communication among AROs, PROs and AROs. He said there are no new laws of the election process. Dau said their experience in the past election must guide them to improve in this election.
Meanwhile PRO Emily Kelton said a few of the election materials for West New Britain have arrived and are kept under police surveillance. She hopes to receive additional materials next week.
“These include voting compartments, stationaries, plastic seals and ballot boxes. All these will be kept under joint security forces until polling when it will be unpacked and distributed to polling teams,” said PRO Kelton.
According to Kelton there are 116 polling teams for Talasea, Nakanai and Kandrian Gloucester.
Kelton expressed that generally there are no major issues being raised during nomination up to the campaign period.
She is confident her team are on schedule to conduct the next crucial part of the national election which is the polling and counting.
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