East Sepik concludes LLG elections, two seats declared fail

Returning Officer Richard Kaiban signing the election writs for LLG and ward council seats in East Sepik today, marking the conclusion of LLG elections in East Sepik. Election Manager East Sepik, James Piapia [left] and Mr Alphonse Kami Provincial Election Steering Committee Chairman [right] witness. (Image: Supplied)

The 2025 Local Level Government [LLG] elections in East Sepik Province have officially concluded, with all remaining presidential and ward council seats declared today.

Returning Officer Richard Kaiban confirmed the successful completion of polling and counting across the final three districts, marking the end of the province-wide electoral process.

Out of hundreds of seats contested, only two ward council elections were declared failed due to violence and security threats, including the destruction of ballot boxes and papers.

These were Keram LLG Ward 7 in Angoram District and South Wasara LLG Ward 30 in Wasara Gawi District. Kaiban noted that these incidents were isolated and did not overshadow the overall success of the elections.

Despite these setbacks, Kaiban expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, particularly the East Sepik Provincial Administration, for their support in ensuring the smooth conclusion of the elections.

He acknowledged the patience of candidates and voters throughout the lengthy process, emphasizing that the province can now move forward with fully elected local governments.

The completion of the declarations means East Sepik’s LLG presidents and ward councilors are now in place, ready to begin their roles in local governance and development.

Meanwhile, attention will later turn to addressing the failed elections in the two wards, with further guidance expected from the Electoral Commission.