A LOSING candidate in the recent Temotu provincial elections was allowed to contest despite violating electoral laws.
Temotu electoral manager Luke Paul confirmed George West contested the Lata Luova ward although he was not a registered voter in the ward, which is illegal.
Mr Paul said in the 2010 provincial elections, Mr West was disqualified from contesting in the Reef Islands on the same grounds.
He said the Ministry of Provincial Government has been informed about the case and is awaiting a report from the electoral office in Lata.
But Mr George claimed he was not informed of this piece of law prior to the election.
However, Mr Paul said every candidate contesting the wards in Temotu Province was informed about the electoral laws.
“Mr West is making lousy excuses, in fact he understands this electoral requirement but went on to contest instead,” Mr Paul said.
He added Temotuans need to know this in future provincial elections.
“My office will be working closely with the Temotu provincial assembly to monitor candidates contesting provincial elections in the future” Mr Paul said.
Lata Luova ward was contested by three candidates. Mr West came last.
By ELLIOT DAWEA
