ABG general elections polling set to commence, campaign ends tonight

The Office of Bougainville Electoral Commission has confirmed that polling will now take place tomorrow Friday, September 5th, 2025.

Electoral Commissioner, Desmond Tsianai, says the decision was necessary to allow ballot papers to be dispatched across Bougainville in time for the one-day polling.

The only exception is the Atolls Constituency, which will vote today September 4.

Commissioner Tsianai says the change was unavoidable after the ballot papers printed in Port Moresby arrived late in Buka on Tuesday, well past the contracted delivery date.

Quality checks on serial numbers also forced delays to ensure ballot integrity.

He stressed that the reschedule was made in the interest of voters, candidates and stakeholders, to guarantee every eligible Bougainvillean can cast their vote on the same day.

"Polling places remain unchanged. Voters will still vote at the polling station for their ward. Only the date has been adjusted."

The OBEC apologizes for the inconvenience and thanked voters, candidates and officials for their patience and understanding.

The OBEC says it remains committed to delivering a credible election and will continue to provide regular updates.

Meantime, all campaigning and campaign-related activities ends tonight at 12 midnight Bougainville Standard Time.

Electoral Commissioner, Desmond Tsianai says a period of silence also starts at midnight tonight and ends at 8am tomorrow morning when polling commences.

Commissioner Tsianai says this period is designed to allow for voter reflection and consideration before the start of polling, and is in line with international good practice despite not being mentioned anywhere in the Elections Acts and the Bougainville Constitution.

He says for Bougainvilleans it could also be a time of prayer for Christians committing to a
successful and peaceful election.

The OBEC is urging all candidates to join it in promoting observance of this period of silence, and to suspend all campaign related activities and actions during this time.