A special National Convention of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was concluded last night at Port Moresby’s Stanley Hotel with an election of new executives.
The convention was witnessed by officials from the Registrar of Political Parties and Candidates.
The election was conducted by election officers from the PNG Electoral Commission. 16 nationwide delegates participated in the convention.
Businessman Mr. John Makop was elected unopposed s a new president of the party.
Mr. Makop’s presidential election was unopposed after the four other contenders formally declined their nomination.
Mr. Paul Kintip of Western Highlands Party branch was overwhelmingly elected as the vice president with 14 votes.
Mr. Gabriel Kotona was re-elected unopposed as the SDP General-Secretary.
Among the three nominees for the Treasurer’s seat, Mr. Sengol Parkop won with 10 votes while interim treasurer (sitting) Rex Wellin rounded up with 6 votes.
Party Leader and NCD Governor Powes Parkop welcomed the newly and re- elected National Executives of the Party.
The Party Leader also thanked the outgoing executive for their efforts in growing the party.
However, Governor Parkop challenged the National Party Executives to work harder and win seats in their own provinces to add value and relevance to their work.
Governor Parkop said the looming National General Election was about selling the parties alternative policies, ideas, convictions and visions to the voters.
Branded as ‘SDP We Deliver,’ the party’s leadership is marked by service delivery and human rights advocacy.