The acting Bougainville Electoral Commissioner, George Manu, is urging all eligible voters to ensure they cast their votes in the autonomous government poll, which runs until May the 25th.
Bougainville voter Photo: Office of the Bougainville Electoral Commissioner
The election in the Papua New Guinea region began on Monday.
Mr Manu says voting is both a right and a responsibility.
He says people have a right to participate in selecting their leaders and a responsibility to carefully consider who they vote for and not interfere with the choices other people make.
Mr Manu says it is critical people vote because the next Autonomous Bougainville Government will prepare the region for a vote on possible independence.
He says people also need to be aware of the voting schedule as polling stations move around the region.
Mr Manu also says he is aware some people are finding their names are not on the roll but his office has set up a facility where, if they can verify their details are on the previous roll, they will be able to vote.
Bougainville elections Photo: Office of the Bougainville Electoral Commissioner
