James Marape returns as PNG Prime Minister after injunction fails to further delay election results

Voting took place from July 4th to 22nd.but the count was extended until Friday due to special circumstances including security issues, attacks on ballot boxes and logistical problems, according to the Election Commission.

International election observers reported problems ranging from scrutiny of tallies and double voting to numerous names missing from electoral rolls.

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Congress leader O’Neill petitioned the Supreme Court on Tuesday to delay parliament’s reopening, saying the electoral roll problem means “millions of people aren’t voting”.

The Melanesian Spearhead Group said in its observer report that the election’s “many challenges” included unexplained delays of up to three days before the count began for some voters, inspector interference, and failed voter ID checks.

In some cases, up to half of eligible voter names were not on the electoral rolls, the Commonwealth Observer Group said.

Last week, Police Commissioner David Manning said there would be an ongoing investigation and arrests into “some candidates believed to be inciting supporters to fight opponents.”

During the vote, Manning said he was sick of the election violence in Enga province, where people were killed and schools, bridges, homes and livestock destroyed.

AAP, Reuters