3 Aug 2007

Final PNG election results about to be announced

3:43 pm on 3 August 2007

The Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission says the last of the 109 seats in the parliament should be declared this afternoon.

Its spokesperson, Mark Karambi, says the Commissioner, Andrew Trawen, will this afternoon advise the Governor General which political parties has first choice to try and form a government.

Mr Karambi confirms this will be Sir Michael Somare's National Alliance.

"Formally the Electoral Commissioner will advise the Head of State by this afternoon which is the name of the political party and in this case it is National Alliance for the Head of State to issue an invitation to form a government."

Mr Karambi says the writs will be returned on Monday ending the Commission's involvement in the process.

Parliament is due to meet on August 13th when a Speaker and Prime Minister will be elected.