"Leave Electoral Commission alone," former PNG Prime Minister and WHP Governor Paias Wingti told MPs

FORMER Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea and Governor of Western Highlands Paias Wingti has called on politicians not to interfere with the office of the Electoral Commissioner.

He made the call following reports that certain cabinet ministers of the government and members of the parliament had made visits to the Electoral Commission to influence the appointment of returning officers.

The Newspaper, Post Courier, reported that Wingti urged Electoral Commissioner Patilias Gamato to carry out his duties without fear or favour as a constitutional office holder who will conduct the 2017 National Election in the most transparent and honest manner.

Patilias Gamato in response said there would be no political influence in the electoral process and, or the running of the PNG Electoral Commission.

Gamato denied claims that named ministers and MPs visited him to appoint the district administers and district managers to be appointed returning officers for their provinces.

Wingti strongly called on MPs not to do such and stand up firm as leaders fighting against corruption.

Paias Wingti

Paias Wingti listening to Powes Parkop

Paias Wingti post for a picture with an Australian parliamentarian  

Paias Wingti

Paias Wingti

Source: Post Courier