Papua New Guinea: Vote counting continuing in some areas as of Aug. 19 /update 2

Event

Authorities in Papua New Guinea are continuing to count votes for undecided seats in some areas as of Aug. 19. These areas are Chimbu and Southern Highlands provinces as well as the National Capital District. The country's governor-general has extended the return of writs deadline multiple times to allow for more time to count ballots, particularly in regions where electoral violence hampered voting and ballot counting. Additional violence and tampering may prompt further delays in vote counting.

Political unrest and violence remain possible in the areas where vote counting is ongoing as well as in areas where counting has been completed. Supporters of different candidates raided the police station in Mendi, Southern Highlands, Aug. 18 and set fire to ballot papers. Fighting has occurred in provinces throughout the country during the general election, with clashes between rival tribal and political groups most pronounced in the Highlands Region, especially Enga Province, and Madang Province. The Election Commission continues to announce voting outcomes in real-time, which could prompt further accusations of voter intimidation, ballot tampering, and other forms of electoral fraud. Such allegations could spark protests and clashes between rival political party supporters, including after officials announce the election results. Clashes remain most likely in the Highlands and cities with large migrant populations, including Port Moresby, Lae, and Madang. Vandalism, arson, and other attacks remain possible and may lead to business disruptions in affected towns. Authorities will likely enhance security in high-risk areas where violence is possible or ongoing; officials may erect roadblocks in some areas and search vehicles for weapons.

Context

Electoral violence has been widespread in Papua New Guinea, with some critics alleging the 2022 general election, which took place July 2-22, could be the worst political violence in the country in decades. Despite James Marape being re-elected as Prime Minister, further violence and unrest are possible in the coming days. Fighting and attacks during the campaign and voting periods have left more than 30 people dead. Police have arrested dozens of others for electoral fraud and launched investigations into candidates for fraud or stoking violence. Despite deploying thousands of military and police personnel for the poll, authorities have been overwhelmed and unable to effectively respond to rising violence, especially in rural areas.

Advice

Exercise increased vigilance and limit unnecessary travel until the election process concludes, especially if operating in hotspots. Avoid political rallies and other large gatherings due to the potential for violence. Plan for potential logistics disruptions if security problems force the closure of sections of the Highlands Highway and/or airports in affected areas. Consider traveling in guarded convoys if overland travel is necessary in the Highlands Region.