The Social Democratic Party has reaffirmed its commitment to honoring past achievements while preparing for the next chapter of its political movement, pledging support for stable leadership, institutional reform, economic growth and, free and fair elections ahead of the 2027 national polls.
Speaking at the party’s fundraising gala in Port Moresby last night, party leader and NCD Governor Powes Parkop outlined the party’s priorities, including strengthening governance structures, growing the economy through enhanced cooperations with Asian economies, modernizing and professionalizing the National Capital District Commission, and safeguarding democratic processes to ensure quality leadership for Papua New Guinea.
Governor Parkop emphasized that the evening was not just a celebration, but a strategic investment in the party’s future. Related news: https://pnghausbung.com/social-democratic-party-backs-marape-led-coalition-govt/
He said strong political movements require planning, research, training and organization, not passion alone, and thanked supporters and corporate partners for backing a policy-driven and disciplined political movement.
The gala was attended by Prime Minister James Marape, business houses, senior ministers, Members of Parliament and others, signaling continued cooperation between coalition partners.
Governor Parkop reaffirmed the party’s support for political stability, including consideration of constitutional provisions relating to votes of no confidence to allow a Prime Minister to serve a full five-year term.
On governance reform, Governor Parkop said the modernization and professionalism of the National Capital District Commission was a key achievement of his 19 years in public office, citing merit-based staff hired with clear key performance indicators.
He noted that Port Moresby had transformed from a colonial administrative enclave into a modern capital city through close collaboration with the National Government and the city’s three Open Members of Parliament.
Minutes after Governor’s speech, Prime Minister James Marape emphasized and reaffirmed how the city has been transformed under Governor Powes Parkop’s leadership over the last 19 years in power.
Governor Parkop confirmed that detailed reports on the NCD reforms would be tabled in Parliament to allow national debate and oversight.
“We are moving away from ad-hoc management towards a professional, merit-based and accountable city administration,” he said, adding that a strong and well-managed capital city benefits the entire country.
Looking ahead to the 2027 General Election, Governor Parkop stressed that elections must be free, fair and peaceful, with the Electoral Commission fully supported to uphold the integrity of the process. However, he said good elections alone were not enough.
“We must also elect leaders with vision, integrity, discipline and a proven record of service,” he said, noting that the Social Democratic Party has focused on quality leadership rather than chasing numbers since 2011.
He highlighted that no single party is likely to win outright in Papua New Guinea’s political system, making partnerships between parties essential for stability and effective governance.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to coalition politics and respectful engagement with other parties in the national interest.
Governor Parkop also called for Papua New Guinea to deepen its economic and people-to-people ties with Asia, describing the region as central to future economic growth.
He said the inclusion of guest performers from Asia at the gala symbolized the party’s belief in strengthening engagement with Asian economies alongside formal government relations.
Concluding his remarks, Governor Parkop urged citizens to participate responsibly in the democratic process and support leaders who place national interest above personal ambition. Relate News: (https://www.thepngsun.com/governor-parkop-pushes-for-strategic-reset-within-sdp-ahead-of-2027-election/)
“Tonight, we celebrate, but more importantly, we prepare,” he said. “Together, we will continue building a stronger, safer and more prosperous Papua New Guinea.”
Foreign Affairs Minister and Moresby South MP Justin Tkatchenko acknowledged everyone for a sold-out event where 50 tables were sold out at K100,000 per table or K10,000 per head.