To ensure a smooth and orderly conduct of the 2025 Local Level Government (LLG) elections, the government and provincial administration of Oro Province—where Popondetta is located—have jointly announced the immediate implementation of strict alcohol control measures across the province. Violators of the new regulations may face fines of up to 10,000 Kina.
Oro Provincial Administrator Trevor Magei issued a stern warning, stating that the decision was based on law and order statistics provided by the provincial police command.
According to the data, alcohol abuse in the province is a serious concern and has directly contributed to a surge in violent crimes. In May alone, 14 murder cases were recorded, most of which were linked to alcohol consumption.
“Following recommendations from the provincial police command, the Provincial Peace and Good Order Committee unanimously decided to implement strict alcohol sale restrictions before and after the 2025 local elections, with enforcement led by police,” Magei said.
A public notice from the Oro Provincial Administration outlines that alcohol sales will only be permitted from Monday to Thursday, between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Sales will be completely prohibited from Friday through Sunday.
Magei further explained that licensed food establishments are allowed to serve alcohol during dining hours, but take-away alcohol in any form is strictly forbidden.
Violations could result in severe consequences, including the revocation of business licenses.
“Alcohol may be consumed on-site in licensed dining establishments, but customers must not remove alcohol from the premises. Failure to comply will result in the indefinite suspension of the business license,” Magei warned.
Oro Governor Gary Juffa voiced strong support for the measure. He emphasized that it is the local government’s duty to ensure that voters can exercise their constitutional rights in a safe and intimidation-free environment.
“This is a crucial moment that comes once every five years, where citizens must be allowed to freely and peacefully participate in the democratic process. Our provincial government cannot allow this to be undermined by drunken individuals or political agitators,” Juffa stated.
Despite Oro Province’s limited financial resources, Juffa said the local government believes that sustainable development hinges on the proper functioning of grassroots governance systems. As such, priority funding will be allocated to ensure the successful execution of the elections.
“I assure both the national and provincial governments that Oro Province is fully prepared to commence the voting process scheduled to begin on July 27, 2025,” Juffa concluded.
