Abau MP and Parliamentary Opposition stalwart, Sir Puka Temu has called for a structured national conversation on reforming Papua New Guinea’s parliamentary system, saying the country must begin preparing now for meaningful institutional change as it works toward its 60th Independence anniversary in 2035.
Sir Puka cited a recent Post-Courier editorial questioning the relevance of provincial governors’ roles, noting that the issue has become increasingly prominent in public discourse. Related news: https://pnghausbung.com/country-needs-a-hard-reset-sir-puka-temu/
His remarks also come ahead of a Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) report scheduled to be debated in Parliament next Tuesday — a moment he believes presents a genuine opportunity to reflect on the future direction of the nation’s governance framework.
“This debate must not be treated as routine business,” Sir Puka said in a statement today.
“It should be the starting point of a serious national discussion about whether our current system is delivering stability, accountability, and effective service delivery.”
At the center of his concerns is the current provincial governance model — particularly the dual role of provincial governors who sit in the National Parliament while also overseeing provincial administrations. Sir Puka questioned whether this arrangement continues to serve its intended purpose.
“The question must be asked — what exactly is the role and function of Governors in our system today? Are they lawmakers at the national level, or administrators at the provincial level? And if they are both, is that creating clarity or confusion?”
His comments come as political and administrative tensions continue to unfold in New Ireland Province, exposing weaknesses in provincial leadership arrangements and raising broader questions about accountability and constitutional design. Sir Puka said such developments highlight the need to reassess whether the existing structure under the Organic Law on Provincial Governments and Local-level Governments remains fit for purpose.
“When governance instability emerges at the provincial level, it disrupts service delivery, weakens investor confidence, and ultimately impacts ordinary citizens. These are systemic issues, not isolated personalities,” he said.
Among the reform options he proposes for open debate is the possible restructuring of provincial governance, including a transition toward stronger, State-style governments with clearer lines of authority and fiscal responsibility.
He has also suggested that Parliament consider the introduction of a bicameral system. Under such a model, the current National Parliament would operate as a lower house representing districts and open electorates, while a second chamber — potentially composed of Governors or regional representatives — could serve as a Senate-style body responsible for reviewing constitutional amendments, major policy reforms, and national budget frameworks.
“This would strengthen checks and balances and may provide a more defined role for provincial leadership at the national level,” Sir Puka said.
Executive leadership reform is also being raised as part of the broader conversation. Sir Puka believes Papua New Guinea should debate whether to retain the Westminster system or consider a model in which the Prime Minister is elected directly by the people. Another alternative would be a Presidential system with fixed terms and a clearer separation of powers.
One proposal under discussion is a system in which the Government and Opposition caucuses each nominate a candidate, with the final decision determined by a national vote — ensuring political clarity and enhanced democratic legitimacy.
Any move toward a directly elected Prime Minister or President, he said, must include a strict two-term limit to safeguard democratic renewal and prevent prolonged concentration of power.
Sir Puka has also indicated that, as part of long-term constitutional evolution, Papua New Guinea could consider transitioning formally into a republic — a step he described as reflecting national maturity rather than a departure from historical relationships.
He emphasized that none of these ideas represent predetermined conclusions. Rather, they are proposals intended for national consultation and bipartisan debate, particularly in light of the CLRC report now before Parliament.
“As we work toward our 60th Independence anniversary, we must ask ourselves whether our institutions are evolving with the times,” he said. “Next Tuesday’s debate on the CLRC report should mark the beginning of that national reflection.”
“The future of our democracy should not be shaped by crisis. It should be shaped by foresight.” Related news: https://www.thepngsun.com/sir-puka-puts-pressure-on-pm-marape-to-define-his-6-year-legacy-as-family-face-hardship/
Sir Puka Temu is the Shadow Minister for Lands, Physical Planning and Urban Development.