Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has called for free, fair, transparent and credible 2027 National General Elections, confirming that the Government has already provided K50 million to the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission and expects to formally present a further K150 million tomorrow, Tuesday, 20 October 2026.
Prime Minister Marape said the additional K150 million, allocated through the 2026 Supplementary Budget, would bring the Government’s total commitment to K200 million ahead of next year’s elections.
“Our Government has already provided K50 million, and tomorrow we expect to present another K150 million, bringing our total commitment to K200 million,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“With this level of funding, we expect the Electoral Commission to step up preparations and deliver free, fair and credible elections in which every eligible Papua New Guinean has the opportunity to vote.”
The Prime Minister said the funding must translate into improvements in electoral rolls, polling arrangements, logistics, training of election officials and election security.
He called for consideration of polling arrangements that would allow sufficient time for voters to participate, particularly in remote and difficult areas.
“We must consider arrangements that give our people adequate time to vote, including polling over one week where necessary, rather than restricting everyone to a single day,” he said.
“We must properly train our election officials and ensure police and security personnel are prepared to protect the electoral process.”
Prime Minister Marape stressed that electoral officials, police officers, security personnel and public servants must carry out their responsibilities professionally and impartially.
“Run a fair election. Defend the electoral process and allow our people to exercise their democratic rights without fear, intimidation or interference.”
PM URGES VOTERS TO CHOOSE LEADERS WISELY
Prime Minister Marape also urged Papua New Guineans to reject tribalism, kinship politics and vote-buying when choosing their leaders.
“Do not vote for a plate of food. Do not vote simply because someone is your kinsman or kinswoman. Do not allow tribal connections, money or personal favours to determine the future leadership of our country,” he said.
“National elections are not a time to play around with the leadership of Papua New Guinea. Every five years, through our democratic process, the leadership stock of our country is reaffirmed, replenished or changed.
“That opportunity is now approaching, and every eligible Papua New Guinean must exercise that responsibility wisely.”
Prime Minister Marape said he welcomed public scrutiny of his government and encouraged citizens to judge all political leaders fairly.
“I speak without fear or favour, even as the leader of the coalition government going into these elections. Judge us fairly. Assess our performance, our conduct and our record in government. You have the democratic right to choose your leaders,” he said.
“For sitting Members of Parliament, you have seen us over the last five years. You know our lifestyles, our performance, our aptitude as leaders and our attitude to leadership.
“Use that knowledge when you vote. Choose leaders who have the ability, integrity and commitment to serve our people.”
The Prime Minister encouraged citizens who regularly expressed political opinions on Facebook and other social media platforms to translate their views into informed decisions at the ballot box.
“Your vote does not only determine who represents your electorate. Your collective choices determine the composition of Parliament and ultimately influence the formation of the next government,” he said.
“Vote consciously for the kind of leadership and government you want for Papua New Guinea. Put the national interest above kinship and personal interests.”
PROTECT THE RIGHTS OF YOUNG AND ELDERLY VOTERS
Prime Minister Marape also highlighted the importance of protecting the voting rights of young Papua New Guineans participating in their first election and elderly citizens who may be voting for the last time.
“Think about the young person turning 18 who will be voting for the first time. This is their opportunity to help determine the future of their country,” he said.
“Then think about our elderly citizens. For some, this may be their last opportunity to vote and help determine the leadership their children and grandchildren will inherit.
“We must respect their rights and ensure every eligible citizen has the opportunity to participate.”
Prime Minister Marape said the Government expected the Electoral Commission and all responsible agencies to use the funding effectively to deliver a peaceful, transparent and credible election.
“The Government is doing its part by providing the necessary funding. The Electoral Commission and all responsible agencies must now do their part,” he said.
“Ultimately, the people must decide who governs them. That is the foundation of our democracy, and it must always be protected.”