East Sepik Governor Allan Bird has raised serious concerns about the government’s funding preparations for the 2027 National General Election.
During Question Time on Thursday (28 May), Governor Bird claimed that the 2022 General Election cost Papua New Guinea almost K1 billion.
He said government agencies responsible for election preparations had submitted budget requests totaling nearly K600 million for this year.
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However, according to Governor Bird, only 25 percent of the requested funding was allocated.
He explained that during a recent inquiry, the Secretary for Treasury informed the committee that discussions would take place later this year to consider additional election funding.
Governor Bird said this funding was expected to be around K400 million.
He questioned where the government planned to find the extra money after Rural and Economic Development Minister Joseph Lelang informed Parliament that K1 billion from the national budget had already been redirected to support fuel subsidies.
“I would like to ask the Prime Minister to inform this House where the government plans to find the additional K400 million needed to prepare agencies for the 2027 elections,” Governor Bird told Parliament.
Prime Minister James Marape responded by saying that elections are very expensive exercises, especially during difficult financial periods.
He explained that Papua New Guinea had recently faced major economic pressures, including cyclone damage in the eastern parts of the country and rising international fuel prices.
Prime Minister Marape defended the government’s decision to redirect funds toward fuel subsidies, saying the government’s priority was to help ordinary citizens cope with the rising cost of living.
“We do not feel it is offensive to redirect parts of the budget to help our people during difficult times,” PM Marape said.
Moreover, Mr. Marape assured Parliament and people of PNG that remaining funding for the Electoral Commission would still be provided.
However, he stressed that the Electoral Commission must provide detailed and transparent breakdowns of all election-related expenses before more funding is released.
He also emphasized the need for proper accountability to ensure all funds are spent correctly and fairly in preparation for the 2027 elections.
Moreover, Mr. Marape challenged the entire Electoral Commission institution from the headquarters’ heads of the Department to the provincial and the district level:
“I need clear visibility of where you are spending this money. You need clear visibility of where you are spending money on,” Mr. Marape said.
“Country deserves you, the Electoral Commission, to inform where you will spend money to run 2027 National Election,” he said.
He said that Marape – Rosso’s government targets is to deliver safe, fair, free election for the people in 2027 National Election.
“I don’t want dirty political leaders to come after 2027 General Election, but true genuine marinated leaders by people,” he said.