Voting kicks off in full force yesterday for many districts and constituencies in central and south Bougainville, while those in the north continue from last Friday.

Polling started on Friday in north Bougainville on a high-note while in the central and south, voting was at a slow pace because the assistant returning officers were still travelling and sorting out things over the weekend in order to be in full operation today. 

A total of 134,279 registered voters are expected to vote in the next two weeks. There are 57,979 registered voters in north Bougainville, 27,648 in central Bougainville and 48,652 in south Bougainville. There are 13 districts and 33 constituencies where polling is underway. 

The 13 districts include Kieta, Wakunai and Panguna in central Bougainville, Tinputz, Atolls, Buka, Kunua and Selau/Suir in north Bougainville and Siwai, Torokina, Bana ad Buin in south BougainvilleThe constituencies contested are Kongara, North Nasioi, South Nasioi, Kokoda, Rau, Terra, Eivo/Torau and Ioro in central Bougainville –Taonita Teop, Taonita Tinputz, Atolls, Peit, Tonsu, Tsitalato, Hagogohe, Haku, Halia, Mahari, Teua, Nissan, Selau and in north Bougainville and Kopii, Motuna Huyono, Ramu, Torokina, Lato, Bava, Bolave, Konnou, Lule, Makis and Paubake in south Bougainville.

This year’s election will also be the first time that polling will be permitted by rebel leaders in areas surrounding the Panguna copper mine, the operation of which was a flashpoint for the start of the 10-year civil war.
Acting electoral commissioner for the ABG Reitama Taravaru advised that polling stations would be open across the region and in full force today.

He said so far voting had been carried out smoothly over the weekend.

“There are already a great number of voters turning up at polling places,” Mr Taravaru said “The reports I am getting from the heads of the police have been very positive. Everyone is looking forward to this election.”...PNS (ENDS)