Showing posts with label 2022 PNG Elections. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2022 PNG Elections. Show all posts

Prime Ministers of PNG and and Potential Candidates for Future

The prime minister's position carries a lot of responsibilities, and also benefits. Those that once occupied this seat will always crave it. 

But, does this make any of them the best PNG prime minister candidate?

PNG prime ministers - png ministers portfolios list 2023 pdf


Prime Ministers of Papua New Guinea

Here is a list of prime ministers of PNG since its independence.
  • Late Sir Michael Thomas Somare (Momase) 1975 - 1980; 1982 - 1985; 2002 - 2012
  • Sir Julius Chan (New Guinea Island) 1980 - 1982; 1994 - 1997
  • Pius Wingti (Highlands) 1985 - 1988; 1992 - 1994
  • Sir Rabbie Namaliu (New Guinea Islands) 1988 - 1992
  • Late Bill Skate (Southern) 1997 - 1999
  • Late Sir Mekere Morauta (Southern) 1999 - 2002
  • Peter O'Neill (Highlands) 2012 - 2019
  • James Marape (Highlands) 2019 - present
Note that John Giheno and Sam Abal were interim prime ministers in 1997 and 2010/2011, respectively, when the serving PNG prime ministers then were in some kind of transition period (i.e. the 1997 Sandline crises and the 2010/2011 hospitalisation of the late Cheif Sir Michael Somare in Singapore)

The last man standing, Sir Julius Chan, describes the former PNG prime ministers in his book, Playing the Game

Here is what he thought of the past PNG PMs.

  • Sir Michael Somare – he thought Somare was a close friend but a political rival. He did not like Somare’s style of leadership. Throughout his book, he was slagging Somare's political tactics and the way political powers were concentrated within small political groups called the '4 Sirs and the 'Kitchen Cabinet'.
  • Pius Wingti – he thought he was okay to work with as his deputy PM. He finds him different from the other Highlands MPs like Okuk. He thought Wingti focused more on business and less on politics.
  • Sir Rabbie Namaliu – he thought Namaliu was a true academic, but indecisive.
  • Bill Skate – he loathed Skate and thought he should never be trusted.
  • Sir Mekere Morauta –-Sir Julius Chan said very little about Mekere. Understandably, he was out of office when Sir Mekere got into politics.
He did not say much about Peter O'Neill and James Marape, they became PM after his book was released in 2016.

Living Prime Ministers of PNG

Sir Julius Chan's role as the PNG prime minister was brought to an end during the university student's strike of 1994. His idea of hiring the Sandline Mercenary was unpopular and gained a hostile welcome as students and the PNG Defence Force revolted against it.

Pius Wingti and Sir J are happy running their provinces.

Sir Rabbie Namaliu has been out of the political scene in Papua New Guinea since he lost the election in 1992.

Peter O'Neill took over from the NA-run government when the founder was sick and in hospital in Singapore. His prime ministerial role was marred by court battles and controversial business deals. He spent more time in courts than in the prime minister's office. He used DSIP/PSIP grants to tie MPs down. O'Neill's commitment to the TFF policy is acknowledged, but there are serious issues surrounding transparency about him.

James Marape slogan 'Take Back PNG' gains popularity. He has a hand in the Pogera and Papua LNG deals which turn out to be decisive. Yet he was known to have spent a lot of money on overseas trips such as the K5 million one-day trips to Indonesia and COP26. 


Who is the best candidate for the PNG Prime Minister's position?

The two MPs in the race for the prime minister's seat after the 2022 elections are the incumbent James Marape and Peter O'Neill. 

There are some dark horses who are also party leaders. Some names that are going around during the elections are:
  • Belden Namah (Momase) - he was the incumbent Opposition Leader and a party leader, 3 terms MP and likely to be the force behind the formation of a new govt. A potential PM candidate, but abrupt and reactive.
belden namah png election - png ministers portfolios list 2023 pdf


  • Kerenga Kua (Highlands)- he is the 2 term, a strong supporter of the late Sir Micheal Somare and leader of the eastern (lower) highlands block, and the leader of the National Party. He is a lawyer by profession, can stand his ground and has a presence about him. He is a dark horse but he will have difficulty working with people he did not like.
kerenga kua for png prime minister


  • Dr Allan Marat (New Guinea Islands) - is cool, calm and collected. He can make a great prime minister. He needs to put his hand up and make it count as the leader of the Melanesian Liberal Party. This is a long shot, but this MP has the PM's aura about him.
latest prime ministers of png


  • Patrick Pruiatch (Momase)- he is a 3 term MP serving senior ministerial portfolios during the Somare, O'Neill and Marape govts; and leader of the National Alliance party. He comes across as an intelligent MP, but it's quite the opposite.
papua new guinea prime minister


  • Don Polye (Highlands) - he occupies senior ministerial portfolios in the Somare and O'Neill govts. Not easily manipulated, a fighter. He is the leader of THE party. He is a civil engineer by profession and can work with MPs from every part of the country. Yet, his THE party has struggled to muster numbers in elections. 
png prime minister don polye


  • Charles Abel (Southern) - a former deputy prime minister, he settled well as the second in command. However, he has a good chance of changing seats with the leader of the PNC party and commanding a following in the Southern part of the country.
png prime minister = latest prime ministers of png


Expect the unexpected

Anyone who follows the PNG elections and by-elections in the past will know that it is 'unpredictable'!

The governor-general will invite the party with the highest number to form the new govt after the 2022 national general elections. Yet, it does not mean that the prime minister will come from that party, because candidates do jump parties last minute. 

Also, the independent candidate will have a lot of say in who's going to be the next prime minister of PNG. 

So, who is the best candidate for prime minister of PNG?


It should not be anyone with a dramatic past, but someone who can empower the people through education, change the mineral and resource laws and bring economic independence.

The country has seen a glimpse of hope in the past Prime Ministers, but they are yet to see someone who CAN get the public servants to earn their pay, and work for the people they serve.

It's not easy. But, it can be done.

Where to get PNG Electoral Roll 2022?

Updating the electoral common roll was (and is still) a challenging task the electoral commission has had to endure. Leaving it until the last minute is going to make things difficult. The 2022 electoral common roll update began late in September 2021.

  • With Peter O'Neill and James Marape on the campaign trails, who are the 'dark horses' in the race for the PM seat after the 2022 election? See the latest article on the best candidate for PNG's PM role.

The 2017 electoral common roll was the worst in PNG's election history. 

Roll inflation and ghost names have marred the last election. 

But, is PNG looking forward to a free and fair election in 2022?

png electoral roll search 2022

2022 national general election electoral common roll updates

Since 2019, NGOs and political commentators suggested the 2022 electoral roll update be done swiftly. However, the preparations for the roll update were delayed to September 2021 and work began in December 2021. 

The PNG electoral commission said that they are ready, but this was the same thing they said in 2017. Yet in some parts of the Highlands region, the electoral roll was inflated to over 70% of the population.

The 2017 electoral roll update was the worst in PNG's election history because it was riddled with ghost names and names of children under the age of 18. 

The recent by-election for Port Moresby North-west had the same problem where some residents do not have their names on the common roll. 

One observer wrote...

Some frustrations from voters whose names were not on the electoral roll but otherwise an orderly process at the polling stations I visited in Hohola and Waigani this morning. [Keith Scott @KeithScottFCDO, Twitter]

2022 electoral roll updates & validation

What is needed is not only an electoral roll update - but an update and validation. So that everyone living and residing in the electoral is accounted for. 

This can be done. The electoral commission does not need an additional K112 million to do that. It can do this within its budgetary allocation.

Get a competent team to do it.

PNG electoral roll search 2022

PNG Electoral Commission Electoral Roll 2022 should be ready. Yet, there's no clear indication of where to get the latest (updated) roll. Here is what you can do to get the 2022 updated electoral roll.

The EC is the right place to check if you are an intending candidate wanting to know your electoral voting population. Talk to the provincial returning officer (PRO) and district returning officer (DRO). They are representatives of the electoral commission - the right people to get the updated list from.

Alternatively, you can also check the 2017 electoral (common) roll at the PNG EC website - follow this link >> https://www.pngec.gov.pg/irc/roll-lookup/RollLookUp

PNG roll lookup 2022 app

Smartphone users can download the PNG Roll Lookup 2022 on Google play.

  • Go to the Google play store
  • Search for "PNG Roll Lookup 2022"
  • Install the app and search for your name.

PNG Roll Lookup 2022 app

Rush roll updates and no validation affect free and fair elections

As mentioned, any new government formed after the election has to make the electoral roll update its number 1 priority. 

This is will pave the way for a free and fair election in the future. 

Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission PNGEC Website - Election 2022

The Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission (PNG EC) website is offline right after the last election. This year, it seems, they are operating from their Facebook page. 

But, for a statutory body, it is a no brainer to have a working website, let alone during the election period.

The website is NOT ONLY an important tool for gathering election 2022 data and communicating information at this time, but also a vital information source for future elections.

PNG EC should get its website back online. Wondered where to get the updated PNG Electoral Common Roll?

Latest deferral of the Opening of Nominations and what dates are changing - read the updates

(Follow-up note: After this article, the PNG EC website is back online)

  • With Peter O'Neill and James Marape on the campaign trails, who are the 'dark horses' in the race for the PM seat after the 2022 election? See the latest article on the best candidate for PNG's PM role.

Why PNG EC website is offline?

The main reason the website is offline is simply that the PNG EC is unable to host it successfully.

You'd think they should get it online by now when they already have a functioning URL. Not only that, they are on Google search results, too. Out of 230,000 search appearances, PNG EC website is number 1 and rightfully it should!

PNG EC is the body that should have its own website at this time. 

Social media and Facebook pages are not the right places to store, manipulate, analyse and retrieve election data. Social media are only sharing platforms. 

Election data is important.


PNG Electoral Commission website http://www.pngec.gov.pg/

Why PNG EC should run its website?

For a statutory body like PNG EC ( and especially during the election), it is vital to get the website online.

A good website can help the electoral commission do many things Facebook cannot do, both on the FRONT HAND and BACKHAND.

Also, a website can help the EC collect and relay information in real-time. 

Above all, the PNG EC website is the primary channel of information for all election-related events, not the news sites or Facebook. 


How PNG EC can get the website back online

The website is a powerful communication tool, therefore the PNG EC must get it back online, going into the 2022 National General Elections.

If you click on the PNG EC links on Google, this is what you get...

Papua New Guinea election results updates

A 404 error simply shows that the PNG EC website is offline. 

As mentioned, the EC already has a URL. Also, they have the website database with their previous company that host its website in 2017. 

It is a matter of getting a backup from them. And, securely host the website. 

In fact, there are different levels of hosting services and server capabilities available. As for the PNG EC website, the second or third level hosting (referred to as the cloud) would be enough. 

It can cost a couple of thousand US dollars to get it up. They do NOT have to spend K100,000 to get make it work.

It's not like creating a new website, it should be quick and easy. Here is how to get the website back online.

What the electoral commission is saying about its website

The PNG EC is saying that they are re-designing the website. Here is what appears on the search.

''The website of the Electoral Commission of Papua New Guinea is currently being redesigned. Access to past PNGEC data is hence limited at the moment. Please reach out to our team via social media...'' Google Cache snippet 08/05/2022
This message has been up since the website went offline right after the 2017 elections. So it has been 5 years.

PNG EC needs a website 

There is no reason or excuse valid enough to justify why the PNG EC website is still OFFLINE. 

This statutory body needs a website for the election for gathering data and disseminating information to the public. And also for assessing the data from the 2022 elections.

PNG EC should not depend on Facebook alone.

PNG election counting update 2022 - daily summary

As the PNG elections are in the counting phase, we bring you a daily 'summary update' of the candidates declared; and party affiliate leading up to the 29th of July 2022. 

For the latest updates, twists and turns, and politics leading to the formation of the 11th parliament, click here.

Updated: PNG national election 2022 counting updates

Leading Political Party Candidates Tally

  • Pangu Pati (Leader - James Marape) x14 declared
  • People's National Congress, PNC (Leader - Peter O'Neill) x7 declared
  • United Resource Party, URP (Leader - William Duma) x4 declared
  • People's Party, PP (Leader - Dr William Tongamp) x3
  • Social Democratic Party, SDP (Leader - Powes Parkop) x2
  • Peoples Progress Party, PPP (Leader - Sir Julius Chan) x1 declared
  • People's First Party, PFP (Leader - Richard Maru) x1
  • United Labour Party, ULP (Leader - Lekwa Gure) x1
  • National Alliance, NA (Leader - Patrick Pruaitch) x2
  • Labor Party, LP (Leader - John Pundari) x1
  • People's Reform Party, PRP (Leader - James Donald) x1
  • PNG Party (Leader - Belden Namah) x1
  • Independent x2
Total winning candidates declared to date = 40

Provincial/Regional seats Declared

  • Manus - Charlie Benjamin, Pangu (polled over 13,234 absolute majority)
  • Bougainville/AROB - Peter Tsamalili Jr, Pangu (polled 42,928 votes)
  • West Sepik - Allan Bird, National Alliance,  NA (polled 127,315 votes)
  • Enga - Sir Peter Ipatas, People's Party (polled 172,653 votes)
  • East New Britain - Michael Marum, Independent (polled 33,285 votes)
  • New Ireland - Sir Julius Chan People's Progress Party (PPP) polled 31,717 ballot votes.
  • Hela - Philip Undialu, Pangu Pati polled 118,113 votes.

Open electorates MPs Declared

Summary of winning candidates by dates and ballot votes, including their party affiliation. 

Compiled from official sources - NBC News, PNG EC, EMTV and Post Courier news releases.

29 July 2022
  • Vanimo Green - Belden Namah, PNG Party, polled 10,213 votes.
  • Ambunti/Drekikier - Johnson Wapunai, PNC (polled 11,842 votes)
  • Telefomin Open - Solan Mirisim, Pangu (polled votes)
  • Esa'ala Open - Jimmy Maladina, Pangu (polled 9,359 votes)
  • Menyamya Open - Solen Loifa, Independent (polled 18,397 votes)


Declared 28th July 2022
  • North Fly - James Donald, PRP (polled 12,648 votes)
  • Central Bougainville -  Fr Simon Dumarinu, SDP (polled 12,263 votes)
  • Moresby South - Justin Tkatchenko, SDP (polled 28,111 ballot votes)
  • Nuku Open - Joe Sungi, Pangu (polled 9,239 votes)

Declared 27th July 2022
    • Gazelle Open - Zelta Wong, URP (polled 9,334 votes)
    • Hagen Open - William Dume, United Resource Party, URP (polled 48, 528)

    Declared 26th July 2022
    • Talasea Open - Freddie Reu Kumai, PP (polled 7,275 ballot votes)
    • Kokopo Open - Ereman ToBaining Jnr, PNC (polled 12,053 ballot votes)

    Declared 25th July 2022
    • South Bougainville Open - Timothy Masiu, Pangu (polled 14,404 votes) 
    • Finschhafen Open - Rainbo Paita, Pangu (polled 23,504 votes)
    • Kompiam Ambum - Sir John Pundari, Labor Party, LP (polled 28,963 votes)
    • Namatanai Open - Walter Schnaubelt, National Alliance, NA (polled 16,454 votes)
    • South Bougainville - Timothy Masiu, Pangu (polled 14, 404 votes)
    • Wabag Open - Dr Lino Tom, People's PartyPP (polled 35,782 votes)
    • Bulolo Open - Sam Basil Jr., United Labour PartyULP (polled 16, 072 votes)

    Declared 24th July 2022
    • Kiriwina-Goodenough Open - Douglas Tomuriesa, PNC (polled 9,555)
    • Kendrian Gloucester Open - Joseph Lelang, PNC

    Declared 23rd July 2022
    • Non

    Declared 22nd July 2022
    • Non

    Declared 21 July 2022
    • Maprik Open - Gabriel Kapris, PNC (polled 16,657 ballot votes)

    Declared 21 July 2022
    • Huon Gulf Open - Jason Peter, URP (polled 19,585 votes)
    • Yongoru-Saussia - MP Richard Maru, People's First Party, PFP  (polling 17,075 votes)

    Declared 20 July 2022
    • Kavieng Open - Ian Ling Stuckey, Pangu Pati (polled 12,523 votes)

    Declared 19 July 2022
      • Yalibu Pangia Open - Peter O'Neill, PNC (polled 45,106)
      • Rabaul Open - Graham P Rumet, Pangu Pati (polled 5,192 votes)
      • Komo Hulia Open - Daniel Tindipu Pangu Pati (polled 12,788 votes)
      • Koroba Lake Kopiago - William Bando, United Resource Party, URP (polled 36,587 votes)

      Declared 18 July 2022
      • Pomio Open  - Elias Kapavore, People's National Congress (PNC) Party (polled 11,949 first preference votes)
      • Magarima Open declared 18 July 2022 - Manasseh Makiba Pangu Pati (votes received 20,753)

      • Lae Open declared 17 July 2022 - John Rosso  Pangu Pati (first preference votes 26,864)

      • Tari Pori declared 10 July 2022- James Marape Pangu Pati (first preference votes 39,877)

      IMPORTANT: If your child/sibling is affected by the election, help him/her. Get free PNG Maths Resources (Exam papers, Units and Topics, Worksheets and Teachers Resource). An initiative of PNG Insight - giving back to the community. Get the free PNG maths resources NOW.

      PNG national election 2022 counting updates

      PNG 2022 Election Result updates

      PNG election counting update 2022 - summary

      Most provinces are in the counting stage.

      Simbu and Western Highlands are the last provinces to go into polling. It starts on Monday 18th July 2022. Only 8 days for polling and counting for these two provinces.

      Deferral of Return of Writs, Unconstitutional

      The deferral of RoW for a further 2 weeks to 14th August 2022 is unconstitutional, but there is a small window of time from the 29th July to 3rd August like in past elections, said the former Chief Justice and stateman, Sir Arnold Amet. 

      He said in this news report that the 'fixed date for the return of writs is critically tied to the 5th anniversary of the date fixed for the return of writs from the previous elections'.

      Section 105 of the Constitution provides for the fixed dates for the national elections to be held within 3 months of the 5th anniversary of the date fixed for the return of writs.

      The PNG EC is going out of the time bound for the RoW and into 'unconstitutional territory.

      PNG Electoral Commission under pressure

      The electoral commission is under pressure to complete counting before the 29th of July 2022. 

      They can be happy now as the date for the return of writs has been extended for a further 2 weeks.

      The counting and declaration will continue until the 12th of August 2022.



      Comment and let our readers know about the latest from your electorates.

      PNG EC 2022 Election Updates

      The Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission (PNG EC) released the tentative dates for the 2022 national general election in May 2021. That was almost a year before the national elections. 

      PNG Insight gives detail on this and the countdown to the major election activities here (countdown to major election events). You can also get the deferral dates from the updated article.


      PNG NATIONAL GENERAL ELECTIONS 2022


      PNG Electoral Commission 2022 Election Dates Updates

      The electoral commission has to either stick to the tentative dates or risk losing time. Moving the dates around can affect election timing which can impact the election 2022 program.

      As planned, each activity is given enough time and is in line with the past election dates. Here is the breakdown according to the current (tentative) arrangement:

      • Intending candidates have 7 days to make their election nominations. 
      • The window of 7 weeks campaign period from the close of the nomination to the start of polling. 
      • Polling will take place over 2 weeks (14 days). 
      • Counting of elections is scheduled to take place over a period of 3 weeks initially. It was changed to 6 weeks, then to just 1 week. (For an unknown reason, counting is now planned for only 1 week)
      • 2022 PNG National General Election takes place over a period of 13.5 weeks.
      • Return of Writs is pegged to the 29th of July 2022.
      Here is what TI PNG said about the important election deadlines. 


      2022 PNG Election tentative dates changes

      All election-related events (nomination, campaign, polling, counting, writs) have been allocated sufficient time, that is why there is no need to change the tentative date. 

      However, in the past elections, we saw the campaign period was reduced, and counting was extended in some parts of the country. 

      In fact, this had affected the 'return of writs'. And lead to a whole lot of inconveniences.

      Remember last election when Gumine Open has two elected MPs sitting in 1st parliament sitting? That's a clear example of PNG EC incompetency.

      What we now see is an act of naivety by the PNG EC when it leaves the election dates in limbo, nevertheless.

      Funding can be an issue. But the govt/treasury has no right, but excuses, to withhold funding.

      Inevitably, the 2022 PNG election has been deferred by two weeks citing preparations for the 7 new electorates.

      Return of Writs is pegged to the 1st of August 2022. We made an adjustment to our earlier article

      PNG EC need to rely on experience, wisdom,  judgement

      Recently, the EC change the polling date from the 25th of June to the 18th of June 2022. That was the first change to the tentative dates. Polling is now confirmed for the 9th of July 2022.

      The EC cannot let the circumstance dictates to it what it must do.

      This is the national general elections.

      Dates must be set, confirmed and finalised and followed through.

      The EC must know that the National General Elections  are above any govt. It's a mandatory requirement govt past and present submit to.

      It is now too late to make any other changes.


      Election tentative dates are important

      In an NCB news report the 

      'Electoral Commissioner Simon Sinai says writs for the 2022 national election will not be issued next Thursday.'

      He also said that

      'the date of April 28th for the issue of writs is only part of the tentative election program. The PNG Electoral Commission has not released any official dates as yet.'

      The official tentative dates have no problems with them. These dates must be confirmed and locked in.

      The current prime minister gave his backing for the election dates as reported by The National.

      Other administrative matters should not interfere with election dates. Period.

      PNG 2022 election unlike others in the past

      The PNG 2022 election will be the most closely watched election unlike others in the past.

      The international (Australia and Pacific) media outlets will be watching and reporting. They can make their own stories, but what matters the most is a successful election.

      That means that the electoral commission must be decisive, and be confident in the date it set earlier. There is no need to change it.

      There is no room to move things around now.


      Why is mobile phone & internet important for 2022 PNG election?

      News and information travel fast on the internet. But importantly, social media in PNG will be lit with election-related events.

      In fact, the internet coverage in PNG is much better than it was 6 years ago. Also, the recent inception of Vodafone PNG is an added bonus, it cannot come at the right time. 

      It is going to be an interesting election.

      Preparing for the Future: Why Papua New Guinea Needs to Start Planning for the 2027 Elections Now

      Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a country that has undergone significant political and social changes over the years. The country has had its fair share of challenges, including political instability, economic struggles, and social issues. 

      However, despite these challenges, the people of PNG have always remained resilient and determined to build a better future for their country.

      The next general election in PNG is scheduled for 2027, and it presents an opportunity for the country to take a step towards a better future. To achieve this, PNG needs to start preparing now.

      Why PNG Needs to Start Planning for the 2027 Elections Now


      The 2027 general election in PNG is only a few years away, and it will be a critical moment for the country's future. This election will determine the next government that will lead PNG for the next five years, and it will have a significant impact on the country's development.

      Preparing for the 2027 election involves more than just setting up polling stations and conducting a vote count. 

      It requires a comprehensive strategy that involves ensuring voter education, conducting fair and transparent elections, and ensuring that the election results are accepted by all stakeholders.

      The Importance of Voter Education

      Voter education is a critical aspect of any election. In PNG, many people live in remote areas with limited access to information, and they may not understand the importance of voting or how to vote. 

      Voter education programs can help to address this problem by providing information on the voting process, the candidates, and their policies.

      Conducting Fair and Transparent Elections

      Ensuring that the elections are conducted fairly and transparently is also crucial. This involves ensuring that the electoral process is
      • free from fraud, intimidation, or violence, and 
      • that the results accurately reflect the will of the people. 

      Transparency is vital for building trust in the electoral process and ensuring that the election results are accepted by all stakeholders.

      Accepting Election Results

      Accepting the election results is essential for maintaining stability and avoiding conflicts that could arise from disputed elections. It is critical that all stakeholders accept the results of the election and work together to move the country forward.

      Conclusion

      Preparing for the 2027 general election in PNG is vital for the country's future. It requires a comprehensive strategy that involves voter education, fair and transparent elections, and acceptance of the election results by all stakeholders. 

      The government, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders must work together to ensure that PNG is well-prepared for the 2027 general election. 

      By doing so, PNG can take a significant step towards a better future.

      What are the New Electorates in 2022 PNG Elections?

      Papua New Guinea Parliament has approved the creation of seven new electorates which will be included in this year’s General Election.

      Prime Minister James Marape Tuesday tabled the 2021 Electoral Boundaries Commission (EBC) Reports and Recommendation in parliament, which recommended the creation of 12 new electorates based on population from the 2011 National Census.

      “From these 12 electorates, the EBC has consulted with the Electoral Commission (EC).

      “The EC indicated that it was not prepared to conduct elections for all the 12 proposed new electorates in the 2022 General Election,” Marape said.

      “After further consultation with the EC, the EBC has recommended the seven electorates to be redistributed and elections of each of these electorates be conducted in the 2022 General Election.”

      new electorates in PNG


      The new electorates include

      1. Delta Fly (Middle Fly), 
      2. Hiri-Koiari (Kairuku-Hiri), 
      3. Popondetta (Ijivitari),
      4. Nakanai (Talasea), 
      5. Wau-Waria (Bulolo), 
      6. Komo-Hulia (Komo-Margarima) and 
      7. Porgera-Paiela (Laigap-Porgera).

      Marape said the commission in June started a review exercise on all provinces with relevant provisions under the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Government Elections.

      He said the country’s population was estimated at over eight million people, an increase of 300 per cent since the first general election in 1977 when the population was 2.3 million.

      Marape said since the 1977 election to the present day, electoral boundaries had not been altered or changed to reflect the growth in population, creating a situation where citizens did not equally benefit from the development of the country.

      Previous reviews and recommendations carried out by the EBC took place in 1981, 1986, 1991 and 2006, but all were rejected by the sitting parliaments, he said.

      The EBC also recommended that five existing electorates, whose proposed population was expected to significantly increase by 2027, would be split but only take part in the general election for that year (2027).

      “Elections for the five proposed new electorates of Baniara (Alotau), Motu-Koitabu (Moresby North-West), Baining (Gazelle), Middle Sepik (Angoram), Mendi Central (Imbonggu) and Anglimp (Anglimp South Waghi), will be held from 2027 onwards,” he said.

      Marape said Parliament was aware that it could only be done once amendments were made to increase the number of open seats from the present maximum of 120 to an appropriate number.

      The total number of seats in parliament, including the seven new electorates, would be 118..


      SOURCE: THE NATIONAL/PACNEWS

      Create Poster with Colourful Background, Images and Texts.

      Do you want to create the best election poster? Here are 3 apps that will help you to create Election Poster Background and make every election poster stand out in the crowd. 

          1. Canva

          2. iShots

          3. Powerpoint

      Let's go through each one of them. Note that the last is easy, but not many people know how to use it. So, learn the tips and try them out. 

      election poster background

      Canva for Election Poster Background

      You can use both the mobile app and desktop version of Canva to create amazing election posters. There are free templates that you can use and customise to your advantage. All you need is data, a mobile phone or laptop computer. 

      However, the designs are limited in the free version. The paid version has all that you need to create a professional poster, image, background and more. The functions are limitless, it depends on your creativity!

      iShot for Election Post Image

      Like Canva, iShot is available in the mobile app as well as the desktop application. If you are looking for something simple. quick and straightforward, this is the app. 

      You can move the image to the background or set a canvas background, bring forward images, use texts and manipulate the images to your liking. It's a simple image and video creator, you can do landscape and portrait with texts and styles.

      It's available in free and paid versions. 

      Powerpoint Image creator

      In terms of ease of use and availability, PowerPoint is the best tool you have. It requires patience and skills to create the best election poster. 

      In fact, you can do anything with PowerPoint (and publisher). A top hint is to use the template generator or template design. Connect to the internet, and use the 'auto-design' feature of the latest MS office. 

      Then, set the background, use text and create the election post to your heart's desire. 

      All in all, these three applications are compatible with mobile phones as well as desktops computers. 

      PNG Election Results 2022: How to follow the counting as it happens

      The PNG election results are the work of the electoral commission. The commission is directly responsible for counting, declaring and returning the 2022 Election Writs to the Governor-General. However, it is not clear how the PNG EC will relay the election results to the public.

      The election results are now coming out of the provinces from journalists, scrutineers and individuals other than the PNG electoral commission. 


      png election results 2022


      How to follow PNG Elections 2022 

      The election results are closely monitored by the major news outlets in PNG. You'll get the latest updates as they happen. Also, PNG Facebook pages will be lit with all sorts of stories. So, be careful where you get your updates. 

      Note that the official telecaster of the 2022 National General Election is the NBC News

      Here are some places where you can get the updates.
      • Post Courier website
      • PNG NBC News Facebook page
      • PNG Electoral Commission Facebook page
      • PNG Loop online news website and Facebook Page
      • National EMTV News website and Facebook page.
      To make it easy for you, we are compiling all the latest election-related news and updates, especially the 2022 PNG election results, on this page.

      2022 Elections results in brief

      • James Marape retains his seat as MP Tari- Pori

      Declaration of election winner by the electoral commissioner

      In past elections, counting was done in each provincial capital and results were returned to the EC in Port Moresby for the official declaration. 

      There were instances of malpractices where the Provincial Returning Officers (PROs) were declared the winner in the province. 

      For example, the first parliament sitting after the 2017 election saw 2 candidates sitting in the Parliament chamber. They were declared winners, one by the EC and the other by the provincial returning officer.

      Such instances can be avoided if the PNG EC does it properly and centrally in Port Moresby after the counting is completed.

      2022 PNG elections electoral common roll update - TIPNG PRESS RELEASE

      TIPNG AIRS CONCERNS OVER ELECTION READINESS, PROVINCIAL ELECTION STEERING COMMITTEES, AND ONGOING DELAYS TO PNG ELECTORAL ROLL UPDATE 

      With the PNG Electoral Roll Update exercise further deferred to December 2021 and January 2022, Transparency International PNG (TIPNG) is now calling the PNG Electoral Commission (PNGEC) and the 22 Provincial Administrations across PNG to urgently establish active Provincial Election Steering Committees (PESCs). Proper arrangements need to be put in place now to avoid the risk of excluding a large segment of unregistered and first-time voters wanting to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming 2022 National General Elections. 

      TIPNG has carried out provincial election awareness and community outreach and when in the various provinces has learned that with only 20 weeks remaining before the scheduled issue of writs for the 2022 National Elections, a majority of provinces have yet to establish functioning PESCs. 

      According to Section 3 of the PNGEC terms of reference for Provincial Elections Steering Committees, PESCs are established for the purpose of “building local capacity and coordinating resources across government to assist the PNGEC in planning and delivery of the elections in the province, including electoral roll maintenance and community awareness.” Apart from key government departments within a province, a functioning PESC must also include at least one representative from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Chamber of Commerce, and Churches within the province. 

      “The role of effective PESCs within the scope of national election coordination is absolutely crucial. It is very concerning to learn that with only five short months remaining before the issue of writs, many provinces are still a long way from where they need to be in terms of coordination and preparedness. Furthermore, the ongoing delay to the electoral roll update exercise is very concerning. More effective collaboration between government and other key community stakeholders is crucial if we are to deliver a successful election, and the PESC is currently the most effective framework for facilitating this collaboration,” said TIPNG Board Chair, Peter Aitsi. 

      The effectiveness of the PESC model has been clearly demonstrated in examples such as the East New Britain (ENB) PESC. Which earlier this year identified the need for additional resources, and made arrangements to provide these resources through the Provincial Administration. ENB has since completed updating its provincial electoral roll and is now ready for the next phase of the National General Elections in 2022. Other provinces such as Milne Bay have now proposed the use of updated ward registry data to speed up the Electoral Roll update exercise within the province. 

      “While the timeframe is less than ideal, we (TIPNG) believe that there are ways that we can make a comprehensive roll update possible. PESCs need to be a lot more active in convening and assessing the opportunities available to them in their respective provinces, and acting on these opportunities for the sake of our people. The conduct of the elections is not the sole responsibility of the PNGEC. We must all play our part and take ownership of this democratic process, to ensure a better future for our people and our communities,” Mr. Aitsi said.

      Source:  TIPNG PRESS STATEMENT | WEDNESDAY 8th DECEMBER 2021 [Facebook]

      PNG electoral roll update 2022
      Image @ TIPNG FB page


      PNG 2022 Election Update: Names of Provicial Returning Officers

      2022 PNG Election News Update: The Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission (PNGEC) has appointed 19 Returning Officers (ROs) for the 2022 National General Elections (#2022NGE). Their appointments were dated 8th Oct 2021.

       Wondered where to get the updated PNG Electoral Common Roll?

      2022 election news updates today

      Latest deferral of the Opening of Nominations and what dates are changing - read the updates

      The three provinces with unknown ROs are Sundown, Western and Western Highlands provinces.

      2022 PNG Election News Update - Provinces and 2022 NGE Returning Officers

      Do you want to write a good Candidate profile? Here is how to do it!

      1. Autonomous Region of Bougainville (Justin Pantumari)
      2.   Central (Peter Malaifeope)
      3.  Chimbu/Simbu (Tom Sine)
      4.   East New Britain (Joap Volvol)
      5.   East Sepik (James Piapia)
      6.   Eastern Highlands (Steven Gore Kaupa)
      7.   Enga (Anton Iamau)
      8.   Gulf (Poevare Tore)
      9.   Hela (John Tips)
      10.   Jiwaka (Rossie Pandhau)
      11.   Madang (Spoosa Navi)
      12.   Manus (Alice Sikin)
      13.   Milne Bay (Dadu Daga)
      14.   Morobe (Simon Moheke)
      15.   National Capital District (Kila Ralai)
      16.   New Ireland (Annette Bais)
      17.   Oro Northern (Daisy Hombogani)
      18.   Sandaun West Sepik (???)
      19.   Southern Highlands (Alwynn Jimmy)
      20.   West New Britain  (Emily Kelton)
      21.   Western /Fly (???)
      22.   Western Highlands (???)
      NOTE: The PNGEC missed the appointment of the 3 ROs due to reasons unknown. This list has been circulated widely on Social Media. 

      We hope that the PNGEC does this selection properly and ensures that this important appointment is complete and FINAL. 

      Let us know in the comment if you know of the ROs for Sundown, Western and Western Highlands provinces.

      PNG Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates (and MPs) Is A Failed Political Reform


      Peter O'Neill's People's National Congress has the highest number of MPs (27) followed by Independent MPs (14); Don Polye's  Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party has 12 MPs; Patrick Pruaitch's National Alliance Party has 8 MPs; United Resources Party and Papua New Guinea Party has 7 MPs each. 

      2022 election results

      It is important to note that the list contained parties and names of MPs who contested under party banners. Many of the MPs who won under sponsored political parties like THE party have jumped ships. 

      Others have joined government or defected to opposition and middle bench or scattered at the backbench, caught between party politics.

      The three convicted MPs are from PNG Party (Francis Potape), PNC party (Havila Kavo) and PUA party (Paul Tiensten). PNG party has also lost Daniel Mona.

      THE party leader, Don Polye, is the Opposition leader. His party deputy leader, Leo Dion, is the Deputy Prime Minister. How can a party leader be the leader of the Opposition while his deputy is the Deputy Prime Minister in the government on the other side of the house? 

      This simply shows that party politics is fragile and pragmatic with no control measures to strengthen political parties. There is, now, a total collapse in the system and structure of political parties which is a cause for concern. 

      The Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates (OLIPPAC; passed in 2001) has failed. Stability within the party is non-existent. Unless political parties are strengthened, Independent MPs and smaller parties can do whatever they want on impulse.


                 Name                             Political Party                                      Number of Members  

      1         Joseph Lelang               Coalition for Reform Party                               
      2         Sasindran Muthuvel       Coalition for Reform Party                               
                                                                                                                                  2
      3         Komun Joe Koim           Independent                                                     
      4         Kila Haoda                     Independent                                                     
      5         Noah Kool                      Independent                                                     
      6         Ron Ganarafo                Independent                                                     
      7         Bire Kimisopa                Independent                                                     
      8         Robert Atiyafa                Independent                                                     
      9         James Lagea                 Independent                                                     
      10       Johnson Tuke                Independent                                                     
      11       Camillus Bongoro          Independent                                                     
      12       Nixon Mangape             Independent                                                     
      13       De Kewanu                    Independent                                                     
      14       Kelly Naru                      Independent                                                     
      15       Solan Mirisim                 Independent                                                     
      16       Richard Maru                 Independent                                                     
                                                                                                                                  14
      17       Loujaya Toni                  Indigenous People's Party                               
                                                                                                                                  1
      18       Malakai Tabar                Melanesian Liberal Party                                 
      19       Dr Allan Marat                Melanesian Liberal Party                                 
                                                                                                                                  2
      20       Patrick Pruaitch             National Alliance Party                                     
      21       Salio Waipo [2]              National Alliance Party                                     
      22       John Hickey                   National Alliance Party                                     
      23       Sir Michael Somare       National Alliance Party                                     
      24       John Simon                    National Alliance Party                                     
      25       Joe Sungi                       National Alliance Party                                     
      26       Kerenga Kua                  National Alliance Party                                     
      27       Jim Simatab                   National Alliance Party                                     
                                                                                                                                  8
      28       William Tongkamp         New Generation Party                                     
      29       Ronnie Knight                New Generation Party                                     
                                                                                                                                  2
      30       Sir Puka Temu               Our Development Party                                   
                                                                                                                                  1
      31       Richard Mendani           Papua New Guinea Country Party                   
      32       Jeffrey Kuave                 Papua New Guinea Country Party                   
                                                                                                                                  2
      33       Sam Basil                      Papua and New Guinea United Party (PANGU)      
                                                                                                                                  1
      34       Daniel Mona (Deceased)Papua New Guinea Party                                
      35       Lukas Dekena                Papua New Guinea Party                                
      36       Ross Seymour               Papua New Guinea Party                                
      37       Francis Potape(Convicted)  Papua New Guinea Party                                
      38       Jim Kas                          Papua New Guinea Party                                
      39       Francis Marus                Papua New Guinea Party                                
      40       Belden Namah               Papua New Guinea Party                                
                                                                                                                                  7
      41       Tommy Tomscoll           People's Democratic Movement                      
      42       Paias Wingti                   People's Democratic Movement                      
                                                                                                                                  2
      43       Labi Amaiu                     People's Movement For Change Party            
      44       Garry Juffa                     People's Movement For Change Party            
                                                                                                                                  2
      45       Charles Abel                  People's National Congress                             
      46       Koi Trape                       People's National Congress                             
      47       Jim Miringtoro                People's National Congress                             
      48       Havila Kavo (Convicted) People's National Congress                             
      49       Peter O'Neill                   People's National Congress                             
      50       Francis Awesa               People's National Congress                             
      51       Bob Dadae                     People's National Congress                             
      52       Paru Aihi                        People's National Congress                             
      53       Ereman Tobaining Jnr.  People's National Congress                             
      54       Nixon Duban                  People's National Congress                             
      55       Charlie Benjamin           People's National Congress                             
      56       Paul Isikiel                     People's National Congress                             
      57       Roy Biyama                   People's National Congress                             
      58       Michael Malabag           People's National Congress                             
      59       Mangere Siniwim           People's National Congress                             
      60       Jeffery Komal                 People's National Congress                             
      61       Louta Atoi                      People's National Congress                             
      62       Boka Kondra                  People's National Congress                             
      63       Isaac Waigavara            People's National Congress                             
      64       Ano Pala                        People's National Congress                             
      65       Gordon Wesley              People's National Congress                             
      66       Aide Ganasi                   People's National Congress                             
      67       William Powi                  People's National Congress                             
      68       Ken Fairweather            People's National Congress                             
      69       James Marape               People's National Congress                             
      70       Mao Zeming                   People's National Congress                             
      71       Benny Allan                   People's National Congress                             
                                                                                                                                  27
      72       Wesley Nukundj             People's Party                                                  
      73       Peter Ipatas                   People's Party                                                  
      74       Davis Steven                 People's Party                                                  
      75       Mogerema Sigo Wei      People's Party                                                  
      76       John Pundari                 People's Party                                                  
      77       Robert Sandan Ganim   People's Party                                                  
                                                                                                                                  6
      78       Ezekiel Anisi 1               People's Progress Party                                  
      79       Theo Zurenuoc              People's Progress Party                                  
      80       Ben Micah                      People's Progress Party                                  
      81       Titus Philemon               People's Progress Party                                  
      82       Byron Chan                    People's Progress Party                                  
      83       Sir Julius Chan              People's Progress Party                                  
                                                                                                                                  6
      84       Anderson Agiru              People's United Assembly Party                      
      85       Paul Tiensten (Convicted)                People's United Assembly Party                      
      86       Ati Wobiro                      People's United Assembly Party                      
                                                                                                                                  3
      87       Tobias Kulang                PNG Constitutional Democratic Party               1
                                                                                                                                 
      88       Justin Tkatchenko          Social Democratic Party                                  
      89       Powes Parkop               Social Democratic Party                                  
      90       Joseph Yopyyopy          Social Democratic Party                                  
                                                                                                                                  3
      91       Mehrra Minne Kipefa     Stars Alliance Party                                         
                                                                                                                                  1
      92       Wera Mori                      Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      93       Julie Soso                      Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      94       David Arore                    Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      95       Don Polye                      Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      96       Mark Maipakai               Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      97       Douglas Tomuriesa       Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      98       Philip Nai                       Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      99       Leo Dion                        Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      100     James Gau Gelak          Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      101     Delilah Gore                   Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      102     Benjamin Poponawa      Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
      103     Akmat Mai                      Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party           
                                                                                                                                  12
      104     Rimbink Pato                 United Party                                                     
                                                                                                                                  1
      105     Joe Lera                         United Resources Party                                   
      106     William Duma                United Resources Party                                   
      107     Mai Dop                         United Resources Party                                   
      108     Benjamin Phillip             United Resources Party                                   
      109     Dr Fabian Pok                United Resources Party                                   
      110     Steven Pirika Kamma    United Resources Party                                   
      111     Anton Yagama               United Resources Party                                   
                                                                                                                                  7

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