The decision by Autonomous Bougainville Government President, James Tanis, to invite foreign observers to Bougainville for the election has won the support of the Bougainville Acting Electoral Commissioner, Raytamah Taravaru.
Speaking to New Dawn FM, Mr Taravaru commended the Tanis/Masatt Government for the decision to invite and allow people from other countries to come and witness how the election is conducted.
Election observers have been drawn from several countries in the Pacific Region.
Mr Taravaru said the presence of foreign observers will be of great assistance to the commission and the ABG government as a whole.
He said the Electoral Commission will use the information in the observers’ report as a guide to improve the conduct of future elections.
Meanwhile, Mr Taravaru strongly urged all candidates and their supporters not to turn away other candidates who want to campaign in their areas.
He said candidates should be allowed to conduct their campaigns anywhere, but appealed to them not to unfairly criticize other candidates.
Mr Taravaru also issued a stern warning to dismiss election officials if they are found to be collaborating with candidates.
All election officials from the Provincial Returning Officer down to the drivers and cleaners must refrain from taking sides. They must remain neutral at all times.
Comments