A member elect expected to be declared today in Kabwum by-election

Eliminations have begun for Morobe’s Kabwum by-election.

As of midday today, 3 eliminations were done with Candidates Aling Kupok at Box 14, James Owa at Box 12 and Noreo Kendip at Box 13 now eliminated.

Progressive results after these there [3] eliminations now sees candidates still in the run with Patrick Basa in the lead with 9, 644 votes, Haring Guoreka Box 20 at 5, 946 votes, Box 17 candidate Sebastian Singery with 3, 580 votes, Box 19 Candidate James Zoriong with 1, 865 votes, Box 18 candidate Graffy Hataba with 1, 495 votes, Box 15 candidate Zerie N Ziwe with 1, 018 votes, Box 16 candidate Sates Wani with 782 votes and running last is Nashon M Fanamu Box 11 candidate with 444 votes.

After count 3 of the elimination rounds, the absolute majority still stands at 12, 388 votes.

According to the returning officer, James Niapukali, votes from the disputed ballot box were also counted yesterday, after candidates’ scrutineers fail to present an official petition with a court order, to stop the supreme court ordered by-election for Kabwum district.

Officials are confident that after two and a half years without a parliament representative, the people of Kabwum district will have a member-elect declared by this afternoon.