Hela Province defies doubts with peaceful and successful LLG Elections

Hela Province has delivered a resounding message of resilience and unity, successfully conducting its Local Level Government [LLG] Elections despite widespread doubt and public fears of failure.

What many expected would be a turbulent and disorderly process instead unfolded with calm, cooperation, and a renewed sense of community leadership. In the lead-up to polling, concerns were rife across the province.

People voiced doubts about whether the elections could be carried out smoothly, citing logistical challenges, political tensions, and the province’s history of law and order issues. Yet, against these expectations, the people of Hela demonstrated remarkable discipline and commitment to democratic participation.

Hela Provincial Returning Officer John Tipa acknowledged the atmosphere of uncertainty, noting that both positive and negative comments had circulated before and during the electoral period. “The people of Hela have defied expectations,” he said, emphasizing that while minor issues were reported in certain wards, the Electoral Commission is prepared to address them promptly.

Mr Tipa praised the overall conduct of the elections, describing it as calm and orderly. He attributed this success to the resilience of the communities and the collective coordination of stakeholders. “I thank the Hela Provincial Government under the leadership of Governor Philip Undialu, the four DDAs, the security personnel, provincial electoral officials, and other stakeholders whose efforts played a vital role in ensuring the smooth execution and success of the LLG Elections,” he said.

In a province often associated with election-related tensions, the absence of violence in the Tari Pori District stood out as a significant achievement. District Development Authority [DDA] CEO Jack Walara confirmed that no incidents of LLG election-related violence were reported.

Speaking during the recognition and writs signing ceremony for the 83 elected ward councilors at the Hulukumaya Building, Mr Walara commended both the councilors and their communities for their peaceful participation. He noted that logistical support provided by the Tari Pori DDA had now concluded with the formal recognition of the ward councilors.

“The successful outcome of the LLG Elections means strong leadership in your respective communities,” he told the councilors. “I urge you to continue this leadership into the election of the LLG presidents and town mayor.”

Mr Walara further stressed that the Tari Pori DDA, under the chairmanship of Prime Minister James Marape, is committed to working closely with the newly elected LLG presidents, town mayor, and ward councilors.

He emphasized the importance of partnership between local leaders and the DDA in strengthening governance and service delivery across the district.