Today is the day for the return of the writs for the 2025 Bougainville General Elections, however, after careful consideration, the Office of Bougainville Electoral Commission (OBEC) has determined that there is insufficient time to return the writs by 22nd September 2025 as earlier anticipated. At the moment all counting for the 2025 Bougainville General Elections are proceeding calmly, transparently and peacefully. OBEC’s priority is the timely establishment of a new House of Representatives, and to achieve this, the scrutiny and counting of votes must be carried out with the highest standards of accuracy and transparency. In line with Sections 146 and 147 of the Bougainville Elections Act, and under public notice, the Commissioner has responsibly decided it is necessary to extend the date for the Return of Writs until 6th October. “OBEC is committed to ensuring the count is conducted in a transparent, peaceful, and calm environment, and remains grateful for the cooperation of candidates, scrutineers, observers, and the public,” said Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Desmond Tsianai. After polling, ballot boxes were securely transported to the four counting centres, with police providing constant security. “Due to logistical issues, counting began three days later than expected, on 12th September and continues to progress steadily.” OBEC reaffirms its commitment to completing the counting process as quickly and transparently as possible. The Commissioner extended his gratitude to OBEC electoral officials for their resilience, to candidates and scrutineers for their engagement, and to observers and media for their oversight. “This has been a transparent and peaceful election process,” the Commissioner said. "Together, with the patience and commitment of all involved, we will bring this election to a successful conclusion.” For electoral updates, Like and Follow OBEC via its Facebook page and visit the election platform www.abgelections2025.com