PNG Prime Minister, James Marape has strongly refuted misleading inferences published in yesterday’s Post-Courier headline suggesting that the PANGU Party is positioning itself to influence the 2027 National General Elections through control of Police and Defense portfolios.
In a statement PM Marape described the claims as “completely false, misleading, and irresponsible,” urging the public to disregard such narratives and remain confident in Papua New Guinea’s democratic processes.
Related news: https://www.pmnec.gov.pg/prime-minister-james-marape-responds-to-misleading-post-courier-article/
“Police and Defense have no role in shaping the outcome of Elections — not in 2022, not in 2017, not in 2012, and not in any Election before. Their responsibility is strictly to provide security so our people can vote safely,” Prime Minister Marape stated.
Prime Minister Marape said the suggestion that Election outcomes could be influenced through ministerial portfolios is “absolute fallacy” and does not reflect the reality of Papua New Guinea’s electoral system.
“This is total fallacy. Elections in Papua New Guinea are decided by the people — not by Police, not by Defense, and not by any portfolio arrangement,” he said.
The Prime Minister clarified that recent ministerial appointments were made based on merit, stability, and continuity of service — not political maneuvering.
“I have no intention whatsoever to remove the Police portfolio from Minister Hon. John Pundari or disrupt stability. These decisions are based on performance and national interest, not elections,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape further highlighted that Minister Hon. John Pundari, who is not a member of the PANGU Party, is now serving as Police Minister, having taken over from senior PANGU leader Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr., demonstrating clearly that portfolio appointments are not driven by party political interests.
He further pointed out that if political motives were at play, recent changes in portfolios would have reflected such intentions — which they clearly do not.
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a transparent, credible, and people-driven election in 2027.
“It is the people who will decide who wins seats across this country. The outcome of elections rests entirely in the hands of our citizens,” he emphasized.
To further strengthen electoral integrity, the Prime Minister revealed that the Government is working closely with the Electoral Commission and key Parliamentary bodies to enhance preparations.
He further highlighted that Allan Bird, an Opposition Member of Parliament, continues to serve as Chairman of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Elections, ensuring transparency, bipartisan oversight, and full visibility of election preparations — including the role of security forces — as the country prepares for the 2027 National General Elections.
“We will ensure strict neutrality. Any Police or Defense personnel found engaging in illegal or politically biased activities will be removed immediately,” he warned.
He added that reforms are being considered to limit Defense Force involvement in elections, reinforcing that elections are a civilian process supported primarily by Police for security purposes.
Prime Minister Marape expressed disappointment with the Post-Courier, describing the headline as sensational and damaging to public trust.
“For a senior newspaper of our country to publish such a headline for attention is disappointing. It misrepresents Government and risks misleading our people,” he said.
He urged media organizations to exercise responsibility, accuracy, and fairness when reporting on matters of national importance.
The Prime Minister stressed that his government remains focused on delivering results rather than engaging in premature political positioning ahead of 2027.
“I focus less on 2027 and more on delivering results today. The people will judge us based on our performance — that is how democracy works,” he stated.
He also reminded voters to exercise their democratic rights wisely:
“Vote with purpose. Do not sell your vote or be swayed by short-term gains. Choose leaders based on character, performance, and policy,” he urged.
Prime Minister Marape concluded by reiterating that no institution or individual can predetermine election outcomes.
“The 2027 elections will not be decided by Police or Defense. They will be decided by the people of Papua New Guinea — as they always have been,” he said.