PNG Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of candidates and voters ahead of the 2027 National General Election.
PM Marape assured Parliament that preparations are underway to deliver a free, fair, safe and credible poll.
Responding to questions from Moresby Northeast MP John Kaupa during Question Time, PM Marape said the Constitution guarantees every eligible citizen the right to contest elections and vote, while government agencies are working to strengthen electoral systems, voter registration, awareness, security and administrative arrangements before polling.
He told Parliament that while all eligible citizens have the right to nominate for public office, voters retain the ultimate authority to decide who is elected, describing the rights to contest and vote as fundamental democratic principles protected under the Constitution.
PM Marape emphasized that Section 50 of the Constitution guarantees the right of every eligible citizen to seek public office without discrimination.
“Section 50 of our Constitution avails the right to contest to anyone without discrimination.”
“I do not think it would be in the spirit of our Constitution to curtail the right of contest. That right remains the right of every candidate,” he said in a statement.
The Prime Minister noted that while anyone who meets the legal requirements can nominate, the final decision rests with the people.
“Anyone can contest, but the voters have a greater right to decide who they vote into office or not. These are two sides of the same coin – the right to contest and the right to vote – both emanating from Section 50 of our nation’s Constitution,” he said.
He said existing electoral laws already provide important safeguards regarding candidate eligibility, including age requirements and restrictions on individuals with certain criminal convictions or other legal impediments.
“These qualifications are already built into our laws. The overall spirit of our Constitution is to maintain the right of citizens to participate in the democratic process while ensuring appropriate standards are upheld,” he said.
He said the government was not considering any immediate moves to restrict citizens’ constitutional rights to contest elections.
“This Government is not looking to curtail the rights of candidates to contest elections.”
“As our democracy continues to mature, future parliaments may review certain matters, if necessary, but our focus today is to uphold the Constitution and strengthen democratic participation,” he said.
PM Marape also addressed concerns relating to election petitions and the recovery of costs by successful candidates, noting that legal avenues already exist within the current framework for those who successfully defend election petitions.
Looking ahead to 2027, he urged eligible citizens to ensure they are properly enrolled to vote and encouraged prospective candidates to prepare responsibly for public service.
“The 2027 National General Elections are now less than a year away. This is an important period for our country.”
“I encourage all eligible voters to participate in the electoral process and all aspiring leaders to engage respectfully and responsibly as they seek the trust of our people,” he said.
PM Marape said the government remains focused on delivering a peaceful and orderly election that reflects the will of the people and strengthens Papua New Guinea’s democracy.
“Democracy belongs to our people. The Government’s responsibility is to protect the integrity of the process, ensure citizens can freely exercise their rights, and maintain public confidence in our electoral system,” he said.