Papua New Guinea police will provide security for the controversial recount of ballots for the Chimbu provincial seat in the 2017 general election.
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Peter O'Neill on the election campaign trail in Chimbu Province. Photo: PMO Media
The recount is to take place this week in Goroka, the capital of neighbouring Eastern Highlands province.
After the Court of Disputed Returns ordered the recount, PNG's Electoral Commission directed that it take place in Lae because of the potential for unrest in Chimbu's capital, Kundiawa.
However, the venue has now been changed.
Police Commissioner Gari Baki said he did not want the recount to be held in Lae due to the security risks of moving the ballot boxes.
Three police mobile squads would be sent to beef up security for the recount, he said.
The recount was ordered after a successful election petition filed by runner-up, Noah Kool.
Mr Kool alleged that Michael Dua's victory in the election was due to irregularities in the process.
