PNG EC PLEA FOR ACCURATE PUBLIC INFORMATION DISSEMINATION

PNG Electoral Commission has strongly called on local media houses and individual social media users to verify information before posting for public consumption as the country now at the crossroads of heading into next critical national general election in the coming year.

Electoral Commission Commissioner Dr Nicole Haley emphasises the vital roles media play in getting the messages out to the public, however, she added that these important announcements, election preparation updates and messages must be verified, vetted and authorised before going out to the public.

Professor Nicole highlighted information is key and citizens, voters and the concerned individuals must be fed with rightful information for decisive decision in coming 2027 National General Election.

Commissioner Professor Haley refuted on several headlines, that stirred unwarranted public opinions that may cause panic, substantive claims to wards the Commissions, lately in the last few weeks.

She also stated that a local newspaper company which recently ran a story in relation to Election preparedness and organisational changes did not actually get her view, opinion and comments on the related matters, thus, running a story that deemed bias, one-sided and lacked substantive supporting facts.

“The Commission notes with concern the unverified claims and broader social media speculations concerning procumbent related matters, election planning and readiness and changes to PNGEC senior management team,” Dr Nicole stated in statement

“The Commission emphasis the importance of accurate, responsible and verified reporting, particularly on matters of significant public interest.

“Media organisations and commentators are encouraged to undertake proper due diligence, verify information and seek comment from the appropriate authority before publication.

“The public is likewise encouraged to exercise caution when engaging with unverified claims and to rely on official PNGEC communication channels for authoritative information concerning the electoral process.

“The Electoral Commissioner has issued a statement providing an update on preparations for the 2027 National General Election, recent administrative actions, governance and procurement matters, and concerns regarding misinformation circulating through social media and sections of the mainstream media.”

She strongly urged the citizens to be wary of skepticism and claims attributed to unidentified officials and information and added that only verified and authorised updates and information to come from her and the Office of the Electoral Commission.