Papua New Guinea voters throughout the country exercise their constitutional rights by voting for their leaders for the 9th National Parliament from 23 June to 6 July 2012. One day polling commenced throughout the country over a two-week period. This will be followed by declaration of winning candidates, election of the next Prime Minister and formation of the new Government when the Parliament convenes in early August.
Current enrolment of eligible voters stands at 4,425,682 for all 22 provinces and 111 parliamentary seats. There are 46 political parties registered with a total number of 3,429 candidates. Although the elections continue PNG's record of balloting at least every five years since their independence from Australia in 1975, they arrived at a significant moment during the country's economic boom.
Malaysia High Commission was given the honour by PNG Electoral Commission to observe the election process. The High Commissioner of Malaysia and the Counsellor visited two polling stations in Port Moresby namely Korobosea and Port Moresby International School. Generally, the voting process at the two locations was conducted in a peaceful manner. The voters should be hailed for their sense of civic duty and ability to freely express their divergent political views. Polling personnel performed their election?day duties with competence and enthusiasm, with a true sense of pride and patriotism. The presence of security officials was observed at the two stations visited. Their presence was unobstructive and non?intimidating therefore contributing towards the peaceful environment during the voting.
