Dei and NIP writs issued

Governor General of Papua New Guinea Sir Bob Dadae has issued Writs for by-election for two electorates, Dei Open for Western Highlands province and New Ireland Provincial seat for New Ireland province.

Acting Chief Electoral Commissioner Margaret Vagi presented the Writs to the Governor General at Government House this morning.

The by-elections will be conducted concurrently with Nominations opening today and closes on Thursday 11th December.

Polling will start on Saturday, January 17, 2026, and end on Friday, January 30, 2026.

The Return of writs will be on or before Friday 20th February 2026.

The seats were left vacant following the passing of late Sir Julius Chan, Governor of New Ireland, and late Steven Pim Member for Dei Open electorate of Western Highlands Province.