East Sepik Governor Allan Bird has issued a stark commentary on the state of governance in Papua New Guinea (PNG), emphasizing the urgent need for systemic change. According to Bird, the country’s centralized government system, where everything emanates from Waigani, has become a recipe for failure. The centralization means that when the center falters, the entire nation suffers. Key responsibilities like power, policing, fuel, water, jobs, and economic policy all rest with the national government, yet these areas are witnessing widespread dysfunction. Bird argues that addressing this structural flaw could resolve up to 80% of the nation's problems.

The frustration among the people is palpable, as they face mounting pressures in their daily lives. From rising living costs to inadequate services, the public is growing increasingly disillusioned with political leadership. This dissatisfaction stems not only from poor governance but also from the perceived indifference of politicians toward their struggles. People are weary and yearning for a leadership reset—a chance to breathe again after enduring six years of the current administration. For many, the call for change is not about who replaces Prime Minister Marape but rather ensuring that whoever takes charge provides hope and a fresh start.

Opinion : By George Lemako,
Corruption in Papua New Guinea has become a deeply entrenched issue, with many allegations pointing directly at the government and Members of Parliament. Instead of addressing these concerns transparently, the government appears to be suppressing voices that expose corruption. The latest move to ban social media, particularly Facebook, raises serious questions about the government's intentions and its commitment to accountability.

Social media platforms have played a crucial role in uncovering corruption in Papua New Guinea. Facebook, in particular, has been instrumental in providing a space for whistleblowers, journalists, and concerned citizens to share information and expose misconduct. However, the government is now moving to ban these platforms, a decision that seems to be aimed at silencing criticism rather than protecting the public.

In the current term of Parliament, Hon. James Nomane, MP, has emerged as a formidable figure, striking the right chords at critical moments. His outspoken approach has sent a strong message, serving as a wake-up call to Prime Minister James Marape, Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey, and Members of Parliament across both sides of the political spectrum, including the National Executive Council (NEC). His fearless stance on pressing national issues has made him the talk of the nation at a time when Papua New Guinea is grappling with widespread poverty, escalating lawlessness, and economic instability.

The question of whether Papua New Guinea (PNG) can continue to elect individuals with low literacy levels and perceived low intelligence into Parliament is a pressing one that demands serious reflection. The Parliament serves as the epicenter of national governance, where the brightest minds are expected to deliberate on critical issues affecting the country at local, national, and international levels. When members of Parliament lack the necessary intellectual capacity or educational foundation to contribute meaningfully, it undermines the very purpose of this institution and raises concerns about the nation's future.

Parliament is not merely a legislative body; it is a reflection of the nation’s values, education system, and societal priorities. It provides a glimpse into how well-educated and competent the population is, particularly those entrusted with leadership roles. Allowing individuals who are uneducated, illiterate, or intellectually unprepared to occupy seats in Parliament tarnishes the image of the nation. Such representation does not inspire confidence domestically or internationally but instead fosters perceptions of incompetence and mediocrity.

The continuous attack on Papua New Guinea's Constitution through frequent amendments to serve the government's interests is alarming. Such actions set a dangerous precedent, undermining the very principles of democracy and good governance. When leaders manipulate the Constitution to maintain power, they erode public trust and weaken the foundations of the nation’s legal framework.

One of the most concerning aspects of these amendments is their long-term impact. Today, one government makes changes to suit its political survival; tomorrow, another will do the same. Over time, this cycle renders the Constitution meaningless, as it ceases to function as a safeguard for citizens’ rights and instead becomes a tool for political convenience. This approach threatens the balance of power and weakens democratic institutions.

Once again, Prime Minister James Marape has placed the blame for Papua New Guinea’s law and order crisis squarely on past governments. Rejecting calls for his resignation, he insists that the chaos unfolding in the country is the result of years of neglect by successive administrations. But how long can he continue this narrative before accepting that, after nearly five years in power, the responsibility to fix these problems now rests on his shoulders?

Marape argues that his government inherited a police force in total decline, with inadequate resources and untrained personnel—even at the highest levels. While this may be true, it is also undeniable that under his leadership, crime has worsened, police capacity remains insufficient, and public confidence in law enforcement is at an all-time low. His list of supposed reforms—police recruitment, training, and agency coordination—sounds promising on paper, yet the country continues to experience lawlessness at an alarming rate.