FORMER PRIME MINISTER Sir Michael Somare has maintained his continuing public criticism of the O’Neill government – this time expressing concerns over allegations of vote rigging in the current election.

Sir Michael says he wants the Police and the Ombudsman Commission to investigate his allegations.

Independent election observers have reported incidents of fraud and abuse throughout the highlands region since polling began on Saturday.

"This is the start of a terrible trend in the country and should not be tolerated," said Sir Michael.

"I call on the Ombudsman Commission and the office of Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates to investigate this and immediately disqualify these members of parliament from contesting these elections."

Sir Michael is once more contesting the East Sepik seat he held for 44 years until his ousting from parliament last August.