Prime Minister Hon. James Marape says the leadership of Papua New Guinea rests firmly in the hands of its people, while outlining the achievements of the Pangu-led Government since 2019 and setting out measures to ensure that the 2027 National General Elections are free, fair, and transparent.
Responding to questions in Parliament from North Fly MP Hon. James Donald, Prime Minister Marape emphasised that no government can predetermine the outcome of an election, noting that the constitutional process empowers citizens to decide who governs the country.
“The outcome of any election is never known in advance. It is the people of Papua New Guinea, through their constitutional right under Section 50, who will decide who forms government,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He stated that all political parties, including Pangu Pati, will present their policies, performance, and vision to the people ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Pangu, like every other party, will go to the people and present our record of the last seven years. Ultimately, it is the people who will judge us, and we fully respect that democratic process.”
Prime Minister Marape acknowledged that political competition naturally brings criticism, but stressed that this is part of a healthy democracy.
“As a ruling government, we attract scrutiny and criticism. That is the nature of leadership, and we accept it as part of our democratic journey.”
Seven Years of Progress to Be Presented
The Prime Minister announced that the Government will soon present a comprehensive report on its performance since taking office in 2019, coinciding with its seventh anniversary on May 30, 2026.
He said the report will detail achievements across key sectors including education, infrastructure, health, and economic growth, while also acknowledging areas that require further improvement.
“We will present to the nation a full account of what we have delivered over the last seven years. We will be honest about both our successes and our challenges, and allow the people to make an informed judgment.”
Prime Minister Marape added that the Pangu Pati National Convention, scheduled in the coming weeks, will also serve as a platform to outline the party’s future policy direction.
Respect For Democratic Transitions
Prime Minister Marape said he respects Papua New Guinea’s democratic system, stating that his government is prepared to accept the people’s verdict in 2027.
“If the people decide otherwise in 2027, we will humbly accept their decision and move to the Opposition benches. That is the strength of our democracy.”
He also reflected on the importance of reforms such as the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates, which has contributed to greater political stability since its introduction.
Ensuring Free, Fair, And Transparent Elections
On electoral integrity, Prime Minister Marape assured Parliament that his government is taking concrete steps to strengthen the electoral process ahead of 2027.
He highlighted the establishment of a bipartisan parliamentary committee, chaired by East Sepik Governor Hon. Allan Bird, to oversee election preparations and ensure transparency.
“For the first time, we have taken a bipartisan approach to election planning. The committee, led by the Opposition, will scrutinise both Government and Electoral Commission preparations to ensure a level playing field for all.”
He stressed that this approach will provide confidence to all candidates and parties contesting the election.
“All aspiring leaders, including those who seek the office of Prime Minister, must have a fair opportunity in 2027. That is our commitment.”
Clarifying Early Declarations of Seats
Addressing concerns about some electorates being declared earlier than others, Prime Minister Marape explained that this is largely due to logistical and security planning by the Electoral Commission.
He noted that in Highlands regions, polling often begins in specific areas first for operational reasons, resulting in earlier counting and declarations in those electorates.
“There is nothing irregular about early declarations. It is a function of election planning, security deployment, and logistics. Some areas are polled earlier, and therefore counted earlier.”
He added that strong voter support in certain electorates can also result in quicker and decisive outcomes.
Commitment To Democratic Integrity
Prime Minister Marape concluded by stressing his government’s commitment to upholding the integrity of Papua New Guinea’s democratic institutions.
“Our duty is to ensure that the electoral process is credible, transparent, and trusted by our people. We will continue to work with all stakeholders to deliver elections that reflect the true will of the people.”