Papua New Guinea, Nov. 25 -- By Makereta Komai, PACNEWS Editor in Buka, Bougainville

The Bougainville Referendum Commission (BRC) has contingency plan in place to respond to adverse weather and logistical challenges, if the need arises, says Chief Referendum Officer, Mauricio Claudio.

He was responding to forecasts of heavy rain expected in the next few days in Southern and Central Bougainville.

"Polling may be challenged in those two regions in the coming days. There's several levels of contingency. We have a polling period that extends for two weeks so those places that will be closed due to the weather can be rescheduled within the period of two weeks.

Claudio said BRC has a logistic plan where vehicles and vessels can be mobilised...