LACK OF SYSTEM TO MONITOR FUNDING FOR POLITICAL PARTIES

Source:The National

According to an official statement, the Government has allocated over K85 million to political parties since 2001, yet there remains an absence of a robust system to track the expenditure of these funds. Mr. Solomon Puana, Director of the Registry of Political Parties, stated, "There are valid concerns; however, the capability to monitor fund usage is lacking. When political parties are requested to submit their election returns, we are only afforded a limited view of the actual financial resources expended in their campaigns. Unfortunately, the prevalence of money politics is a sobering reality in Papua New Guinea, and the necessary inter-agency coordination to oversee these practices is not in place."Mr. Puana noted that the Organic Law on Political Parties and Candidates (OLIPPAC) mandates that the State fund political parties, particularly those with sitting Members of Parliament, via the Central Fund established under Section 76.

In August, Registrar of Political Parties Emanuel Pok indicated that the State has disbursed K85,638,434 in the past 24 years. "This figure includes periodic salaries and monthly stipends for political party executives," he clarified. "Despite encountering delays in funding, when disbursements occur, they are backdated and provided in full." Mr. Puana emphasized that political parties must adhere to the OLIPPAC requirements by submitting their financial reports by March 31 each year, which should encompass updated membership lists, revised policy platforms, and party constitutions.

Furthermore, each party is expected to submit an election report, due three months following an election. "The most evident source of funding is membership fees," he remarked. "A political party with a Member in Parliament is assured K10,000." "This funding is designated for the maintenance of political parties." "It is within the mandate of the Registry of Political Parties to oversee party and candidate donations. However, fulfilling this responsibility necessitates expertise that exceeds the current capacity of the Registry of Political Parties.

Three UOG Students Complete Industrial Training with the Registry

The Registry saw the successful completion of a six‑week Industrial Training Program by three students from the University of Goroka (UOG): Ms. Saphirah Iveke, Mr. Johnson Miam, and Mr. Gerard Kelpet. The program, which commenced on 10 August 2026, provided the students with practical exposure to the Registry’s daily operations and its vital role in supporting Papua New Guinea’s democratic processes. The three students where directly engaged with the Registry functions and administrative activities. They also participated in other various workshops such as the Regional Women’s Forum on Politics and the Code of Ethics for Political Parties. Other two significant activities was the Registry’s 25th anniversary celebration event and the Political Parties Exposition for parties.
On 18 September 2026, the students were each awarded an Industrial Training Certificate at a farewell luncheon. Speaking on behalf of the group, Mr. Kelpet acknowledged that they had not known of the Registry prior to the program but now deeply appreciate the critical role it plays in safeguarding democracy.
Registrar Mr. Emmanuel Pok expressed gratitude for their contributions and wished them success in their future endeavors, emphasizing the Registry’s commitment to nurturing young talent and raising awareness of democratic institutions. This milestone reflects the Registry’s dedication to building partnerships with academic institutions and fostering the next generation of professionals who will strengthen Papua New Guinea’s democratic framework.

REGISTRY WITNESS PARTY DIALOGUE

Demonstrating its ongoing commitment to supporting and promoting the growth and capacity of political parties in Papua New Guinea, representatives from the Registry of Political Parties and Candidates attended a dialogue between Pangu Pati and the Communist Party of China (CPC) on July 27th, 2026 following an invitation from Pangu Pati.

The Registry’s Policy and Legal Division was invited to witness the discussions surrounding a proposed sister-party relationship. The Registry delegation consisted of Director for Funding and Disclosure, Mr. Solomon Puana, Manager for Disclosure, Ms. Fraghi and Manager for Legal. Ms. Lyean Nants. The Pangu Pati team was led by National General Secretary. Mr. Morris Dogimai Tovebae alongside Minister for Education and Member for Kerowagi, Francis Kinkin Sinue, Minister for Housing and Member for Tewae-Siassi, Dr. Kobby Bomareo, and Secretariat officers.

During the session, Pangu Ministers expressed gratitude to the CPC and referenced the historical foundation of PNG’s foreign relationships established by late Sir Michael Thomas Somare in 1974 and Sir Maori Kiki in 1976. The discussions emphasized that while the proposed relationship remains open, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) explicitly restrains both parties from interfering in each other’s internal affairs.Registry Insights and Guidance on Party Governance As part of the Registry’s role in guiding political parties on organizational structure and development, Mr. Solomon Puana was invited to share insights from his previous visit to China.He highlighted two key observations relevant to party institutional building saying the structured framework utilized for internal political education and capacity building, the CPC’s active engagement with sister parties globally to foster international ties.

The dialogue also served as an opportunity to clarify regulatory frameworks. When CPC’s Mr. Zhao Hongtao inquired about the impact of the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates (OLIPPAC) on local political parties, Mr. Puana provided clear legal guidance. He explained that 95% of the law remains stable with only 5% undergoing changes, highlighting that OLIPPAC acts as the primary legislation, while individual party constitutions serve as sub-legislations designed to govern internal party members.MOU Deferred for AdjustmentsWhile the overall engagement was positive, the MOU was not signed during the session and has been deferred to a later date to allow for necessary adjustments. Key provisions, including China’s inclusion of the One China Policy, are set to be amended to properly align with the mutual understanding of both parties before formal execution.

The Registry of Political Parties continues to observe such developments to ensure political parties operate within statutory frameworks while expanding their organizational capacity.

Registry initiates Chronicle Project

For decades, much of Papua New Guinea’s history has been viewed and documented through an international lens. But as the nation celebrates its 50th anniversary of Constitutional Independence, a groundbreaking new initiative is set to change that narrative by telling PNG’s story from the inside out. The Chronicle of Political Party Project, an initiative spearheaded by the Registry of Political Parties, is officially documenting the history of political parties in Papua New Guinea from 1960 to 2025.
Brainchild of the Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Pok, the project aims to record the crucial emergence of political parties in the 1960s and their direct involvement in PNG’s journey to Independence in 1975.With the nation reaching its 50-year milestone, the initiative serves as a vital tool for national identity, ensuring that younger generations understand the foundation laid by the country’s early leaders. “We have a political culture where political parties come up and die out, even after the founder dies, the party dies with it. Even a party that formed the government, faces the same fate. Parties like People’s Democratic Party (PDM) have been strong in the 1997 election and now all the good leadership, the policies have not been recorded. Histories of these once vibrant political parties have not been recorded, even the traits of these dynamic political leaders, that’s why I have come up with this project.” Mr. Pok said. The project – which concludes in both a comprehensively written book and documentary series stands as the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates Commission’s (IPPCC) formal tribute to the country, its people, the government and its founding fathers.
The monograph heavily focuses on how early leaders realized they needed to organize themselves into formal political parties to effectively complete for the right to govern. By profiling major parties, the project fills a critical, long-standing gap in PNG’s documented history. Parties profiled in the project include the ones who have dominated the landscape over the last five decades, such as Pangu Pati, United Party, National Party, People’s Progress Party (PPP). Melanesian Alliance Party, People’s National Congress (PNC) and National Alliance. While time limits prevented every single party from being profiled in this initial launch, the Registry has confirmed that this is an ongoing effort that will eventually include all parties over time.
This chronicle is a look back from the journey of political parties charted through but also a roadmap for the future. By looking at the successes and failures of these parties in public policy, structural reforms, resources management and service delivery, the project aims to provide invaluable lessons for the next 50 years of PNG’s development

FEMALE STAFF PARTICIPATE IN MARIANVILLE CELEBRATIONS

Five female staff members from the Registry of Political Parties and Candidates Commission recently joined fellow alumnae to celebrate the Marianville Secondary School’s historic diamond jubilee.The 60th-anniversary celebration brought together women from all walks of life, spanning from the pioneering class of 1966 to current students. Together, they gathered to honor and appreciate the school’s faith-based principles and dedicated nurturing, which have long empowered young women to become well-educated, principled leaders.
Taking advantage of this unique gathering, the five Registry staff members, conducted an awareness session on a major milestone, the Registry’s new provision requiring political parties to endorse a 10% quota for female candidates under their party banners.The initiative received high praise from prominent attendees. Ms. Angelyn Paranda, Acting Director of the Legal Training Institute (LTI), commended the Registry’s efforts, noting that Papua New Guinea has lacked laws specifically creating space for women in politics since 1975. “This is the first law of its kind, and it is historic in itself,” she said. Echoing this sentiment, Ms. Anna Kavana Bais, former Secretary for Community Development, a 1985 Marianville alumna, and a People’s Party-endorsed candidate for Moresby North-Wester in the 2022 National Election, expressed great optimism. She noted that the revised Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates brings genuine hope for future female leaders.
Many of the Marianville alumnae in attendance now hold prominent leadership roles or have contested past national elections. Fully understanding the steep challenges women face in the political arena, they widely applauded the Registry for creating a concrete pathway for women to enter politics. Notable attendees included, Acting Electoral Commissioner, Margaret Vagi, 2022 Moresby North-East candidate under United Labour Party, Dianne Unagi and Principal Legal Officer for Ela Motors, Ms. Erica Gwale.
The five participating staff members expressed their gratitude to the Registrar and the IPPCC for providing the support necessary to attend the anniversary. Following their successful awareness outreach at the event, the team has officially submitted a list of recommendations to the management to groom women leaders in the country.

LESSONS FROM DEI OPEN

The Registry of Political Parties conducted a thorough field observation during the recent Dei Open By-election in the Western Highlands province. The Registry prioritized these observations to assess, justify, and strengthen the institutional participation of political parties. The Dei Open by-election was a critical, standalone case study for election observers and political stakeholders. With the 2027 National General Election approaching, the findings from Dei provide essential indicators of the political landscape, party awareness, and systemic challenges within the Highlands region.
While the by-election period was notably peaceful and free of major conflict, severe structural issues were observed at the polling booths. Security personnel and observers noted the widespread practice of katim vote, a way of block voting where groups of individuals override individual choice to secure first-preference votes for a community endorsed candidate.The IPPCC observers have noted that this practice directly undermines the constitutional right to a secret ballot. These findings align with recent warnings from Acting Electoral Commissioner, Margaret Vagi, who emphasized during a 2026 workshop that block voting compromises democratic integrity and weakens the core of a representative democracy. To protect individual voter agreement, future electoral management must strictly enforce constitutional voting protocols.
Thin Party Participation and the Need for OLIPPACC Awareness
A primary concern for the Registry was the remarkably low level of institutional party engagement. Out of 25 contesting candidates, only one was formally endorsed by a registered political party, Jeremiah Pim, running under the People First Party banner. The remaining 24 candidates contested as independents. Field interviews revealed that a vast majority of voters lacked a basic understanding of the role, mandate, and importance of political parties within PNG’s democratic system. Voting behavior remains heavily dictated by tribal loyalties, candidate personalities, and family legacies rather than party policies or organizational platforms. For the Registry, this highlights an urgent need for strong, nationwide ward-level awareness campaigns to educate electors on how political parties stabilize and drive parliamentary democracy.
Marginalization of Women in the Electoral Process
The observation team reported a blunt shortfall in inclusive participation, with zero female candidates contesting the by-election, deeply male-dominated system continue to lower women to minor roles, effectively shutting them out of active political engagement. Interviews with local women indicated that aggressive atmospheres at polling venues and cultural barriers prevent them from exercising their democratic rights. Many expressed fear or indifference, noting that the dominance of male voters makes it extremely difficult for women to have a meaningful voice at the ballot box.
Recommendations for the 2027 Roadmap
To ensure that the 2027 National General Election is free, fair, safe and truly inclusive, the IPPCC observation team has suggested the following urgent policy recommendations based on direct community feedback.Implementation of Electronic Voting: Transitioning toward biometric or electronic voting mechanisms, the use of photo roll to eliminate the physical intimidation related with block voting and ballot tampering. Mandatory NIC Verification: Integrating National Identification (NID) cards into the voter enrollment and verification process to clean up the common roll. Gender-Segregated Polling Booths: Establishing dedicated, separate polling areas for women to ensure they can cast their ballots safely, independently, and without external coercion. Proactive Party Campaigns Encouraging registered political parties to maintain a continuous, visible presence through policy awareness year-round, rather than surfacing during brief campaign windows. The Registry’s observation team has concluded that by addressing these structural weaknesses and updating the Code of Conduct, PNG can better safeguard the integrity of its electoral systems and foster a more responsible political culture.

REGISTRY TEAM TRACKS SHIFTING VOTER TRENDS IN NEW IRELAND BY-ELECTION

An observation team from the Office of the Registry of Political Parties and Candidates Commission has completed an extensive monitoring task in New Ireland Province, uncovering major shifts in voter behavior and deep-rooted political rivalries. Deployed to Kavieng from January 16th to 23rd, 2026, the commission’s team was assigned with evaluating political party performance, measuring voter perceptions, and assessing the participation of women during the provincial by-election. The officials from the IPPCC collected these findings, highlighting a changing political landscape following the passing of the former Prime Minister, People’s Progress Party (PPP) founder and Governor, Late Sir Julius Chan.
Commission Captures Voter Backlash
Using targeted questionnaire guides and face-to-face interviews during exit polls, the Registry’s team documented a significant breakdown in traditional party-line voting. In the past, New Ireland voters have strictly aligned with major party platforms. However, the recent controversial strategies during the recent by-election disrupted this trend. The nation's oldest political entity, Pangu Pati, chose not to endorse its own candidate, instead joining forces with the PPP to back Byron Chan, the late Governor’s son. Commission observers recorded widespread dissatisfaction among grass-roots party followers, who openly criticized the alliance. Locals told Registry’s branding the coalition a "political marriage of convenience" designed solely to maintain hereditary control. The report notes that this internal friction drove a large portion of traditional party loyalists to abandon the coalition candidate and cast their votes for independents instead. Out of ten contesting candidates, seven ran as independents.
Key Candidate Platforms and Cultural Hurdles Monitored
The Registry team monitored the campaigns of several prominent contenders, noting distinct differences in strategy and public reception: In the case of Byron Chan (PPP) coming from a strongly leveraged established party machinery and received a wave of "sympathy votes," a succession trend the Registry notes has been repeated in other recent by-elections like Bulolo, Maprik, and Porgera-Paiela. For Kepas Aruban Wali (Independent) which merged as the primary challenger to the Chan dynasty. Running on the slogan "Mangi Ples Yet" (A Local Boy), Wali drew large crowds. Registry interviews revealed his message resonated deeply with voters frustrated that a province hosting two major gold mines has seen little to no new infrastructure. The lone female candidate in the race, Rhodie Paut-Nawara (Independent), presented a comprehensive 100-day policy platform focusing on power generation, water supplies, and medical facility scoping. Despite Paut-Nawara’s strong third-place finish in the 2022 National General Election, the Registry’s team observed that the deeply engrained patriarchal Maimai (Chief) culture continues to severely restrict the political advancement of women. Local interviews conducted by the team confirmed that because male chiefs dominate community decision-making, the chances for female candidates remain slim without a coordinated shift in cultural mindsets.
Field Operations and Biometric Testing
Registry officials on the ground monitored all six polling stations within the Kavieng Urban LLG, reporting a highly peaceful environment with no security incidents and a light police presence. The commission highlighted a notable administrative trial: polling officials successfully captured facial photographs of voters at exit points. This initiative was implemented to build data security ahead of the biometric voting roll-out planned for the 2027 National General Election which may not happen following confirmation from the PNG Electoral Commission.However, the team flagged a severe, recurring warning for electoral authorities. Many elderly citizens in their 50s and 60s discovered their names were entirely missing from the common roll—an ongoing issue previously documented in 2017 and 2022. While the Election Manager received last-minute clearance to utilize the 2022 supplementary list to rectify some omissions, the Registry warned that unresolved common roll issues could trigger widespread chaos in the 2027 national elections if left unaddressed.
Post-Election Standoff Following Declaration
The counting process finally endorsed the Registry's field observations of a highly competitive race. Byron Chan was declared the winner after the elimination of National Alliance candidate Joshua Takin Soi provided the necessary preference flow. Chan secured the seat with 21,481 votes, defeating runner-up Kepas Wali (15,725 votes) by a margin of 5,756.

JANET’S JOURNEY WITH IPPCC

This September, the Registry of Political Parties will celebrate its silver jubilee, marking 25 years since its inception. While political landscapes change and leaders come and go, one steady presence has remained, the operational backbone of the office. Mrs. Janet Mallian, the Executive Officer who has served alongside every single Registrar in the Registry’s history.
From the Registry’s humble beginnings under the Department of the Prime Minister and National Executive (PMNEC) to its modern standing as a self-accounting institution, Mrs. Mallian, from the Karkar Island in Madang province has been part of the Registry every step of the way. Her journey is a personal milestone; yet it is the story of Papua New Guinea’s democratic process. Mrs. Mallian’s story with the Registry began in April 2007 as a young woman with so much enthusiasm. At the time, she was working with the Legislative Council division within the PM&NEC. When Prime Minister Sir Mekere Morauta’s administration established the IPPCC the founding Registrar, the late Paul Bengo, began recruiting capable public servants to build the new office from the ground up. Mrs. Mallian was brought in on a six-month secondment arrangement to assist with setting up administrative structures. But as October approached, she realized her heart was with the newly formed Registry. “I applied for this position because I saw that it was vacant, I applied and got that position, so I did a letter to my boss (late Mr Hudson Ramatlap the First Legislative Counsel) at Legislative Council asking if I could be transferred,” Janet recalls. Her boss did not take the news well. “He squeezed my letter and told me, “Get out of my office!” Fortunately, a fortnight later, her boss had a change of heart. “I told him, ‘You always encourage us to look for greener pastures, and I think I found one.” He laughed and said, “Yeah, okay, now I can let you go.” With that, Janet’s permanent tenure began, joining a tiny, tightly-knit team of pioneers, many of whom have since sadly passed away.
Witnessing an Institutional Development
Over nearly two decades, Mrs. Mallian has served under four distinct Registrars, each bringing a unique leadership style that shaped the Registry’s culture. Being the officer who works very close to the registrar’s over the years, she observes. The late Mr Paul Bengo was strict but deeply caring where he focused heavily on building the administrative foundation and recruiting the initial team from scratch. Sir Kina Bona was a lawyer by profession who brought legal thoroughness. He focused on uniting stakeholders and conducting provincial consultations on Organic Law. The late Dr. Alphonse Gelu, PhD brought with him the academic background and transitioned the Registry into a self-accounting body in 2014, breaking away from PM&NEC financial controls. He prioritized nationwide voter awareness, political party development workshops, and mentoring programs for women candidates.
The current Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Pok is a young vibrant leader who is focused on execution, gets work done. Recently, he quickly secured state funding and paid funding to political parties and back pay stipends for political party executives which was long overdue, and enforcing structural compliance. Among the effective actions of the Registrar, the funding also catered for 3 directors’ vehicles, an office bus and a support vehicle “I’ve seen a very big difference,” Janet notes comparing the eras. “Late Dr. Gelu groomed the staff beautifully. The others passed only Mr. Solomon Puana promoted to Manager Policy & Legal and current as Director Funding & Disclosure. Now we have Mr. Emmanuel Pok, who is an action man, he gets things done, though he needs the strong administrative and technical manpower of the office to back him up. Mr Pok has also put in a very big impact by lobbing for the Revised OLIPPAC with the key MPs. The Revised Law got passed in Parliament by 83-0.” Running the Registry is not without its trials. One of the greatest challenges Janet recalls from the early days was simply educating political parties about their obligations under the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates. A major behind-the scenes reality that the general public rarely sees is the difficult enforcement of accountability. Every year by March 31st, political parties must submit financial returns.
The IPPCC comprises of the Registrar, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Economic and Fiscal Commission (NEFC), the PNG Electoral Commissioner, the Clerk of Parliament, and church and women’s representatives, acts as the ultimate decision-making body. While, the Commission has historically been lenient, giving parties extra time to comply a historic milestone was reached recently when the Registry stood its ground against non-compliant, “one-man” parties. “We had 56 political parties after the 2022 General Elections. Just recently, they deregistered 12 political parties. The Commission members had to stand their ground to make the decision to deregister them.” Now we have 44 registered political parties. These deregistered parties must now wait for five years, an entire parliamentary term, before they can attempt to register again.” Mrs. Mallian highlighted.
Advise to young public servants
Her message to the younger generation in the public service,” There are so many criticisms on the media and social media about public service because we are paid by the state. So public servants must come to work on time, punctuality is very important and do your mandated role that you are paid to do and leave at 4.06pm. Be honest in your work and do it, not only when the boss is around.” “My tenure will be for less than 10 years, and it’s this young generation who will take the office forward. Their approach towards work needs to change. Mrs. Mallian advised.
Fond Memories
For Mrs. Mallian, the journey has been filled with unforgettable moments. One of her fondest memories dates back to her early days in 2009, when she traveled as part of a massive Pacific Islands delegation to Vanuatu alongside Mr. Bengo and Dr. Sepoe (the then-Chairlady of the Commission). “It was my first time traveling for work, sitting at a round table, listening to them debate and talking about political party systems – I learnt so much, and I will never forget it. She also fondly remembers the strict but motivating standard held by Dr. Gelu during nationwide awareness campaigns. “He would tell us, “I can tell if you’re really doing your awareness or if you’re just sitting under a tree sleeping or drinking. When you submit your report, I will know!’ It kept us on our toes and ensured we truly went out and interviewed the public.” From a skeleton staff of less than ten people working out of the Prime Minister’s department, the Registry has grown into a strong institution of 27 staff members operating from its own independent office. As the IPPCC Registry prepares to cut its 25th-anniversary cake this September, it does so on the shoulders of dedicated public servants like Mrs. Mallan. Her resilience, adaptability, and institutional memory remain the quiet engine driving the Registry of Political Parties now and into the next 25 years.

NEW COMMISSIONER SWORN IN TO STRENGTHEN IPPCC BOARD

The Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates Commission (IPPCC) marks a significant milestone in its ongoing institutional growth with the official swearing in of its newest Commissioner, Mr. Alphone Kapi Malipu.Mr. Malipu serves as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Economic and Fiscal Commission (NEFC), who was officially sworn in on 29th May 2026 by the Legal Manager, Lyean Nants at the Pala boardroom in the Registry’s office in Port Moresby. Welcoming the new member of the Commission, IPPCC Registrar Mr. Emmanuel Pok emphasized the crucial role the Commission plays in shaping Papua New Guinea’s political landscape and uplifting its democratic institutions.
Mr. Pok briefed the Board on several major, upcoming policy initiatives designed to develop and improve the administration of political parties nationwide. The addition of fresh outlook to the Board comes at a vital time as these regulatory frameworks are being developed.IPPCC Chairman, Reverend Roger Joseph said, “The changes we are seeing today are reflections of a collective commitment to improving the organization and strengthening its role in our democracy.” Reverend Joseph expressed the Board’s appreciation to Mr. Malipu for stepping into the role during this crucial period of development. Acknowledging that the IPPCC has continued to make steady progress despite external criticisms, Reverend Joseph noted that navigating such challenges is a natural part of Commission’s growth. The Chairman highlighted that Mr. Malipu’s extensive background will be an invaluable asset to the team, in the areas of Academia and Public Policy, Governance and Leadership from a public sector experience and leadership role at NEFC.“Coming from your rich background of academia and public policy advisory, you will bring significant value to the Board in guiding discussions and shaping decisions that will contribute positively to the future of our country,” Reverend Joseph stated.
The appointment of the NEFC Chairman to the IPPCC Board emphasizes a growing momentum toward collaboration between key state institutions. Members of the Commission’s Board, the Secretariat and the Management of the Registry were all in attendance during the swearing in ceremony.

PANGU PATI: A STORY WORTH TELLING

By CYRIL GARE
I returned after a week in the village attending to a death in the family and had to catch up with the happenings. Among the news was the successful conclusion of PANGU Pati’s 28th National Convention at the Hilton hotel and the onset for the 2027 election as it approaches its 60th birthday next year. Well done, congratulations.
I reflect not only on Pati’s role in giving birth to a nation but also on the life it gave me personally during the nascent stages of my professional journey. PANGU is not merely a political party, it is an institution of human enterprise, a living force that has shaped generations and continues to define the destiny of Papua New Guinea. For two consecutive years at the University of Papua New Guinea, the K80 fortnightly allowance, book allowances, and meals provided by PANGU were more than incentives. They were oxygen to an uncertain future, sustenance to a young soul searching for meaning. Without them, I might not be the man I am today. For this, I thank PANGU Pati. I also acknowledge the “father” and East Sepik Regional MP, the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare, who picked me from the streets of Wewak and shaped me into a man, a talent among the 10 million this country so desperately needs.
There were four others like me sponsored by PANGU during our time at UPNG. We owe it to the Pati, and I hope many more will follow under its sponsorship. Later, I served the Pati as East Sepik Provincial Branch Secretary and later Provincial President under two parliamentary leaders: Sir Rabbie Namaliu and Andrew Kumbakor. The Hilton occasion could have been a fitting moment to share my life story with PANGU. Yet even from afar, I felt the pulse of the Party’s 28th National Convention. It is now 6:05 pm. The sun sets behind smoke-stained hills along Dikagari Road, Tokarara, as I type on my Android, sipping black coffee from my wife Lisa’s market table, cigarette in hand, catching up on news and reminiscing. PANGU’s successful National Convention has reinvigorated its onset for the 2027 election, only 11 months away.
Say what you will, but PANGU is real. It was the beginning, it reigns today, and it is the future. For me, it is the umbilical cord of my life. I owe my freedom, liberty, and country. PANGU is PNG. PNG is home. Bai mi go we? In June 1982, PANGU won 51 of 109 seats, a record still standing. In 2022, when I contested Angoram Open as an Independent and lost, PANGU won 39 of 118 seats and formed Government with a coalition. For 2027, PANGU has resolved to secure 60 seats. The cutting edge is the Connect PNG flagship road program. Nearly 5,000 kilometers of the planned 20,000 have been sealed, valued at K7 billion of the K20 billion project spanning 20 years. Tears of rural mothers were not in vain when roads finally reached their villages. Mock the Prime Minister for sharing these moments, but God sees the heart, results will prove if prayers were heard. Second, the 55–45 per cent equity shareholding policy is now locked in. New Porgera’s 51–49 split is already paying millions in dividends, and the verdict will be proven in time.
The bottom line is increased funding to subnational governments. Do not score the National Government alone, judge your Governors and MPs too. Billions have been allocated. Four fingers point back, so accountability lies with your MPs. Have they delivered? Chuave has new roads. North Fly has a new terminal. East Sepik has projects worth a billion kina, including the long-awaited K100 million Passam–Angoram highway sealing, a blessing for Grand Chief Sir Michael’s home district. The first-of-its-kind arch bridge at Hawain, valued at K20 million, is under construction, delighting many in both East and West Sepik provinces. The new Boram airport terminal and runway extension will soon allow Airbus 737 services, a gift to the people of Somare.
Regardless of seating in the House, every electorate has received its fair share. It is you, the voter, who will deliver the final verdict. The convention reaffirmed the Government’s long-term economic growth agenda, setting ambitious targets: • K200 billion by 2030 • K300 billion by 2035 • K500 billion by 2045
It also committed to the K11 billion national education infrastructure program, designed to improve learning environments through 2035. More young Papua New Guineans are now studying overseas under the STEM program of the Marape–Rosso Government, a source of pride for parents. Free education continues from primary to secondary, a relief for millions. HECAS, TESAS, and HELP remain lifelines despite critics. Under Prime Minister James Marape, international diplomacy has reached unprecedented levels, placing PNG firmly on the world stage. Sports tourism, including the NRL franchising of the Chiefs, may one day see our sons and daughters playing world-class rugby, earning hundreds of thousands in a diaspora once thought impossible.
Medical tourism is emerging, with breakthroughs in kidney transplant and heart surgeries performed by PNG’s own doctors, achievements made possible through political will and state-backed funding. Unless clouded by self-pity, one can not deny this Government has delivered. As the Prime Minister himself concedes: “More work remains to be done.” Development is a growth process, not a Facebook glitch. Say what you will. Exercise your right. Vote wisely. But remember, PANGU is PNG, and PNG is our home. Bai yumi go we? Your vote counts. Blame no one but yourself as a voter. Do not repeat the mistakes of the past 10 elections. In this 12th national election, I urge you to find the snake’s head and shoot it with the silver bullet. Snake is corruption. Snake is curse out of the Pandora’s box. Do not allow the serpent to crawl into the House and multiply its hatchlings (snakelets), or we will be finished into oblivion.
As PANGU rightly resolved: it is the next generation that matters, not the next election. PANGU’s story is not just about politics. It is about life, liberty, and the future of Papua New Guinea. It is about roads that reach forgotten villages, schools that educate the next generation, hospitals that save lives, and policies that empower families. It is about a Party that has stood the test of time, weathered storms, and emerged stronger. It is about a people who continue to believe in the promise of independence, the strength of unity, and the hope of progress. For me, PANGU is not just history. It is personal. It is the umbilical cord of my life. And as the nation prepares for the 2027 election, I say again: find the snake and shoot it on the head. You have the silver bullet. Use it wisely or we are done. Ends.

TEGA TVET SCHOOL RECIEVES COMPUTERS & COMMISSIONS NEW COMPUTER LAB

(L-R) Registrar, Emmanuel Pok, Western Highlands TVet Inspector, George Indiga, Tega TVet Manager Sammy Ono

Board Secretary, David Yak

Students and staff witnessing the ceremony

By Claudio Labeli

The Tega Assemblies Of God (AOG) TVet Technical school in the Western Highlands Province was the recipient of five new desktop computers donated by the Registry of Political Parties. The donation was a commitment made by the Registrar Mr Emmanuel Pok in 2025, when he was invited as a special guest to witness the inaugural graduation of the school at Pultimb village, in the Hagen Central District.

There to witness this small but significant occasion was the Western Highlands TVet school inspector Mr George Indiga, the school’s Board secretary, Mr David Yak, the Institute’s manager, Mr Sammy Ono, the staff and students. On presenting the donation, Mr Pok emphasised that institutions play a critical role in grooming and shaping young leaders of tomorrow. Apart from engaging with political parties, this small gesture is the Registry’s community obligation in reaching out to its citizens. The Registry over the years have donated to numerous other institutions in the country and this was nothing new. This timely donation also saw Mr Pok cutting the ribbons to officially open the new computer laboratory.

New Women's Representative joins IPPCC Board

By Claudio Labeli
On Tuesday 29th July 2025, the Registry in a small but significant ceremony welcomed the new Women’s representative to its Board of the Integrity of Political Parties Candidate Commission. Present at this event was the Chairman, Reverend Roger Joseph, Registrar Emmanuel Pok, senior managers and staff. Section 4 of the Organic Law on Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates (OLIPPAC) highlights the membership composition of the Board. They are; the Clerk of Parliament, Electoral Commissioner, Chairman/CEO of National Economic Fiscal Commission (NEFC), Representative of the National Council of Women and the representative of the National Council of Churches. The women’s representative on the board was left vacant for a couple of years after the exit of Ms Theresa Jaintong

In the swearing in ceremony of Ms Sabeth Yengis, chairman Joseph emphasize the important role women play in the society and also stressed the need for more women to participant in the political landscape of this country. He admitted that Ms Yengis brings the gender balance onto the current board. The Registrar in his welcoming remarks outlined the important role that Ms Yengis brings to the board as the women’s representative and the responsibilities that is mandated by the OLIPPAC in this institution.

Ms Yengis was the former President of the Council of Women of Enga having served in that position for 15 years before being elevated to the current role as the President of the National Council of Women for Papua New Guinea. On hand to formalize the swearing in ceremony was the Registry’s legal council Ms Lyean Nants.

Registry of Political Parties, a partner stakeholder in the WMC Phase 2

By Patrick Kaiku
On Tuesday the 22nd of July, 2025, the Registry of Political Parties (Registry) was invited to Kina Haus, Downtown, Port Moresby, for an inception meeting formally recommencing the second phase of the Women Make Change (WMC) program. The second phase will be within the 2025-2028 period. The second phase is a follow on from the successes of the inaugural phase (2020-2025). The inception event was organized by the UN Women and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

WMC is funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The WMC is an informal mechanism for both non-governmental organizations and government agencies. The UN Women and UNDP play the coordinating role. Through the WMC, stakeholders align their work programs aimed at empowering women to take up leadership roles and play important responsibilities in the decision-making arenas of the country.

Stakeholders in the WMC include; UN Women, UNDP, Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates Commission, Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, Department for Community Affairs and Religion, PNG Women in Leadership Program, Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women Empowerment, Improving Political Inclusion and Participation Program, National Council of Women and International Foundation for Electoral Systems. of the empowerment of women into political arena and decision-making positions.

Representing the Registry, Registrar of Political Parties, Mr. Emmanuel Pok reported on some of the key milestones in the Registry’s efforts to mainstream women participation in political party institutions in the country. Some of the initiatives include the amendments to provisions in the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates (Integrity Law), requiring political parties to endorse female candidates. These amendments are afoot in the form of the revised Integrity Law, presently with the Office of the Solicitor General, before Cabinet endorsement for reading in Parliament.

As a key stakeholder in the Women Make Change Phase 2, the Registrar made reference to the Registry of Political Party’s Corporate Plan 2023 to 2027, and the work plans of the Registry to engage in the women leadership development programs leading up to the 2027 National General Elections in PNG.

Registry of Political Parties observation team interview at NBC studios in the New Ireland province

Pic:The Team from the Office of Registry of Political Parties at the National Broadcasting Corporation New Ireland studio.

On the Tuesday the 17th of July 2025, Local-level Government Election Observation Team New Ireland from the Registry of Political Parties dropped by at the National Broadcasting Corporation New Ireland for a live interview. The Registry of Political Parties is the only governmental institution presently conducting election observations in this year’s LLG elections.

The Registry have a team on the ground, to observe and document the administration, and conduct of the 2025 LLG elections, with the stated aim of understanding the role of political parties in the communities. The team, led by Director for Policy, Legal and research, Patrick Kaiku says, they are holding discussions with political parties, candidates, and key stakeholders across two districts of Namatanai and Kavieng, to assess the environment in which the elections are being held.

He said: “election observations are very important because yumi bai kisim experience na lessons blong elections ba em bai informim how bai yumi prepare for the next election ah!” He said we’ve been having elections since 1964 and 50 years later, we are still having issues. “So mipla kam long Niu Ailan yah, em blong traim blong understandim whether ol political parties or whether environment i allowim pipol long expressim democratic rights blong ol, igo gut or align wantem tingting blong gavman long conductim free na safe elections,” he said.

The Registry has teams doing LLG elections observation nationally. Provinces covered in this year’s LLG elections include the Central Province, Morobe, Madang, East Sepik, Sandaun, Western Highlands, Enga, Southern Highlands, Jiwaka, Eastern Highlands, Northern (Oro), West New Britain, and New Ireland Provinces.

It is imperative that elections – both national and local-level government elections are observed because the documentation of election processes is the basis to inform policy and legislative reforms for future elections. The findings and recommendations from elections observations will help the Registry of Political Parties to present strong recommendations to decision-makers, with the aim of strengthening future electoral processes, especially at the subnational level.

source:NBC New Ireland/P.Kaiku

Pangu Pati Inc. Training and Induction Workshops

By Solomon Puana
The Registry of Political Parties is the mandated body that protects the elections from outside and hidden influences and also deals with political institutions (Political Parties) in strengthening them because they are the major key payers in our democratic system of government. The Registry was pleased and grateful to be part of the Training and Induction Workshop conducted by the Pangu Pati Inc (PPI) in the four (4) regions of the country from November to December 2023. The first leg of the induction workshop was held in Port Moresby for the Southern Region executives from the 4th to the 5th of November 2023, the second was conducted in Kokopo, East New Britain Province for the New Guinea Islands Region executives from 13th to the 14th November 2023, the third leg of the workshop was conducted in Kundiawa, Chimbu Province from the 29th to 30th November 2023. The training and induction workshop was concluded on 2nd of December, 2023, in Lae, Morobe Province for the Momase region executives.
The PPI training and induction program was an initiative to assist the Pangu Pati Inc. Provincial Executives of its 22 branches in the country. This initiative is a pilot program that will be conducted for a duration of five years until 2027. The training and induction workshop was formulated by Pangu Pati Inc. in partnership with the Registry of political parties to deliver during the four (4) regional workshops in the country.
The focus of the PPI Training and Induction workshop is in consistent with what the Registry is embarking on, and that is to promote and strengthen political parties in our young democracy. The main purpose of the Training and Induction workshop was to build and develop the capacity of Pangu Pati Inc. Provincial Executives to better manage the party in their respective provincial branches, and at the same time to prepare them for the next National General Elections in 2027.
It has been for far too long that political parties only exist during election time and are extremely weak. This needs a total transformation. The Registry is now encouraging and calling all registered political parties to come out of the comfort zones and take similar approaches to build and grow their parties, so that we can have strong and viable democratic party system in our country.

Registry Takes Part in Reform Initiatives

By William Garena
The Registry of Political Parties took part in a nation-wide consultation to review the form and system of government together with key government agencies. The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) was tasked to take lead in the review process. The review began with its launching at Holiday Inn, Port Moresby on 16th February 2023 by the Prime Minister Honourable James Marape.
The focus of the review is based on four key areas: system of government; current structure of the National Parliament; election of Prime Minister; and the different levels of government. The purpose of the review is critical as it takes stock of how far we’ve come as a nation since independence in 1975. The review will inform us if the current systems are workable or it requires change to suit our development aspirations.
An External Secretariat was formed to support CLRC during the review process and included Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council, Department of National Planning and Monitoring, Department of Finance, Department of Treasury, Department of Justice and Attorney General, National Economic and Fiscal Commission and Registry of Political Parties.
The nation-wide consultations was conducted on 5th March – 18th May 2023 to which the Registry of Political Parties played an integral part in gauging the views of the people on the four key areas of inquiry. Apart from the nation-wide consultations, the Registry of Political Parties submitted a technical paper on how the political party system would be affected by the direct election of the Prime Minister.
A final report including the recommendations is expected to be submitted to the Prime Minister and NEC in February 2024 before it goes to Parliament for deliberation and rectification.
Finally, the Registry of Political Parties is grateful to be part of the government’s reform initiatives and thanks the CLRC in particular for providing the leadership in this important government activity. The Registry of Political Parties looks forward to contributing meaningfully to future reform initiatives set by the National Government.

Commemorating the Late Dr Alphonse Gelu

By William Garena
The 4th of January 2024 marks the first year of the late Dr Alphonse Gelu’s death anniversary. This article in a way is part of commemorating the tremendous contributions the late Dr Gelu has had on the Registry of Political Parties through his professionalism and wonderful personality. Since joining the Registry of Political Parties as the Deputy Registrar in 2011 to his appointment as the Registrar in 2013, and until his resignation in April 2022, he has contributed enormously to the development pf political parties and democracy in the country. He will always be remembered as an astute commentator and expert in the National Elections, and a fine academic and researcher in the field of political science and public policy. But more so, his name will be synonymous with the word “Democracy”.
The work of the Registry of Political Parties began to take prominence under his leadership as the Registrar through his prudent administration of the Office, and the significant work programs and key activities he initiated. The late Dr Gelu had continued to promote and uphold principles of democracy through political parties during his tenure as the Registrar.

OLIPPAC: The work on reviewing the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates (OLIPPAC) after the Supreme Court decision in 2010 will remain a testament to the late Dr Gelu’s tireless efforts in strengthening the political party system. This could have been one of his greatest legacies if the revised OLIPPAC was passed in Parliament. Although attempts were unsuccessful in passing the OLIPPAC over the last three parliamentary terms, the review process continued. He believed that once the revised OLIPPAC is passed, it would greatly strengthen political parties as important political institutions. The new law would be integral to creating political stability and most importantly, for political parties to recruit, train and produce strong political leaders in driving the country’s development agendas forward. Dr Gelu asserted that the focus of the revised OLIPPAC is to strengthen and promote political parties as an important institution of democracy, as opposed to regulating the behaviour of Members of Parliament (MPs).

L&D PROGRAM: Throughout his tenure at the Registry, Dr Gelu emphasised the need for political parties to be more structured and organised by introducing the Learning and Development (L&D) Program that ran from 2012 - 2022. It is a flagship program of the Registry that focuses on training party executives in building their capacity on how to effectively manage their respective political parties. The trainings were conducted in a series of workshops that was facilitated by Dr Gelu and staffs of the Registry, together with key partners such as the National Democratic Institute (NDI), Australian Labour Party (ALP) and the Australian Liberal Party.

AWARENESS AND ELECTION OBSERVATIONS: Political parties’ awareness is an ongoing activity that was identified by the late Dr Gelu as a key activity in raising public awareness about the important roles political parties play in service delivery and how they contribute towards nation-building. The awareness drive is a nation-wide campaign aimed at promoting political parties which the late Dr Gelu spearheaded effortlessly. It involves activities such as district visits, radio talk-back, Political Party Expos, cultural show visits, merchandising and advertisements, etc.
According to Dr Gelu, the rural masses do not know why it is important to vote for a political party, or they do not know which party their MPs belong to. He argued that the Registry must be financially equipped to continue to roll-out awareness so sufficient information is accessible to the vast majority of people throughout the country. This is crucial because people will be able to make better choices when voting for a political party in the National General Elections and the LLG Elections. The work on awareness was based on the theme, “know a party, join a party, Know a party, vote a party” Due to the work on awareness, the Registry of Political Parties has participated as domestic observers for the National General Elections and LLG Elections since 2012.
Unlike other domestic election observers, the Registry’s election observation focuses on the performance of political parties and the performances of women candidates. Dr Gelu was a staunch advocate for the legislation of women’s political participation and representation. In the 2017 National General Elections Report by the Registry and the draft report of the 2022 National General Elections, the awareness on political parties has proved fruitful in that more than 70 percent of seats in Parliament was has been won by party endorsed candidates compared to independent candidates in the last two elections. The late Dr Gelu was adamant that awareness on political parties must continue with funding support from the government.

ADMINISTRATION: As the Registrar, he was very committed in ensuring that the operations of the Registry was managed efficiently and the development of the Registry’s Corporate Plan 2017-2022 captured the necessary plan and vision on how political parties should be administered. Under his leadership, he made the following critical decisions to allow for the Registry to function sufficiently in supporting its programs:
- Revised the OLIPPAC;
- Initiated office restructure and established self-accounting system;
- Secured funds to purchase new IT Server;
- Established partnerships with key stakeholders; and
- Initiated the Registry’s quarterly news publication “Singaut Bilong Politics”.
>Br> He has been a mentor to many of us in this office and a fair and loving “Boss” who is deserving of a highly regarded statesman. The late Dr Gelu was a humble and dedicated professional who served the country with commitment and distinction during his term as the Registrar of Political Parties.
We pay tribute to him and celebrate his life’s work and service to the Registry of Political Parties, his family and friends and to his country.

TANIKIU BADA HEREA DR GELU!

Revised OLIPPAC Consultation in 2023

By Solomon Puana
The process of consultation began long ago after the decision of Supreme Court in 2010 nullifying certain provisions in the OLIPPAC, 2003. The Registry started the consultation process in Port Moresby, Alotau and Kokopo. The consultations in Port Moresby involved experts in Politics and Law that generated a lot of discussions and ideas in revising the Organic Law.
In April 2012, a team was put together and led by late Dr. Alphonse Gelu who was the Registrar at that time. Other stakeholders included National Research Institute (NRI); Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG); University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG); Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC); the Office of State Solicitor; late Dr. Ray Anere; late Dr. Henry Okole; Mr. John Kouni; and late Mr. Paul Bengo (First Registrar). The team also gave opportunity to the Commissioners of the IPPCC and they are: late Sir Andrew Trawen; Mr. Nau Badu; Dr Orovu Sepoe; Mr. Simon Ila; and others, which included late Dr. Laurence Kalinoe; and the former Chief Secretary late Sir Manasupe Zurenuoc to give their views on the proposed revised OLIPPAC.
The proposed revised OLIPPAC was approved by the National Executive Council (NEC), however, it was not tabled and debated on the floor of Parliament for passage in 2014. In 2017 after the National General Election, the O’Neill-Abel Government made a commitment to reactivate the proposed revised OLIPPAC for tabling and passing in Parliament. The Registry responded immediately by taking on board the commitment and again undertook another consultation process on the proposed revised OLIPPAC.
In 2019 the Registry was requested by the Office of the State Solicitor to conduct a nation-wide OLIPPAC consultation before it gave legal clearance for it to be tabled and debated in Parliament. In this nation-wide consultation process, the Registry consulted 2 provinces per region and this included Western Highlands; Jiwaka; Madang; Morobe; Milne Bay; Central; East New Britain; and New Ireland Provinces. The consultation was conducted in the form of public forums and meetings which the teams met with two groups of people. The first one was the target groups, which was mostly comprised of the Provincial Administration or the Provincial Management Team (PMT) and the Civil Society and interest groups which included (Women, Youths, and people with special needs (disabilities), LLG ward Councilors and Presidents and the general public). The second one was the focus groups, mostly students from the Secondary Schools (especially Grade Twelves’) and the Tertiary Institutions such as the Universities and Colleges. In 2020 the proposed revised OLIPPAC Bill was once again gazzetted and submitted to Parliament for debate and passage. However, the proposed revised OLIPPAC Bill was never tabled, debated and passed in the 10th Parliament. In March 2023, the Marape – Rosso Government has now made commitment to revive the proposed revised OLIPPAC Bill again after two attempts of passage of the Organic Law.
As of late, the State Solicitor has informed the Registry that since the last gazzetted Proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill and the Proposed Revised OLIPPAC Bill 2020 have lapsed in the last Parliament. It is now necessary for a consultation to be undertaken again, but this time, only with the important key stakeholders who will be immediately affected by this law, which are: political parties; and the MP’s. Hence, this consultation will be focused on these two groups and intents to achieve the purpose of:
 Getting the executives of political parties and MPs to know about the OLIPPAC; and
 Getting the views of the political parties, their executives and MPs on the proposed changes to the OLIPPAC.

This will be the third attempt to get the proposed revised OLIPPAC passed by Parliament in this 11th Parliament.

Passing of Senior States Man and Former Registrar, Late Paul Bengo

By John Bishop
It was with great sadness that we learnt of the passing of the founding Registrar of Political Parties, Mr Paul Bernard Baundi Bengo BA, CBE, CSM on the 15th of January 2024.
Mr Bengo served the Registry as the Registrar from 2001 to 2008 until reaching the retirement age as per the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties & Candidates. Mr Bengo was a seasoned Public Servant who had served many Government organizations with distinction and loyalty. They included Secretaries of Lands, Defence and Provincial Secretary for East Sepik to name only a few.
However it is in his capacity as the Registrar of Political Parties that he made his mark towards the development of political parties in Papua New Guinea when the Organic Law was enacted in 2000 when Sir Mekere Morauta was the Prime Minister. His contributions to the development of Papua New Guinea was well documented and highlighted during his funeral service by Ms Dulcie Somare and Ambassador Gabriel Dusava.

His contributions to development of political parties in PNG as the founding Registrar was recognized and as a small token of appreciation the Registry’s conference room was named after him in 2014. The conference room is known as “Bengo Room” May his soul rest in eternal peace

Official Swearing In of Registrar Mr Emmanuel Pok

By Claudio Labeli
On 16th of November 2023, the Registrar of Political Parties Mr Emmanuel Pok was sworn in at the Government House witnessed by staff of the Registry including family and friends of Mr Pok. The occasion finally eventuated after numerous cancellation of this event in the past month. In the absence of the Governor General Sir Bob Dadae, Speaker of Parliament and Acting Governor General, Honourable Joe Pomat was there to officiate at the ceremony at Konedobu.
A luncheon was later hosted back at the Registy’s conference room and Mr Pok acknowledged everyone who contributed to his official appointment including staff and his immediate family. Mr Pok was officially appointed in August 2023 as the Registrar by the Board
Since the establishment of the office in 2002, prior to his appointment, previous Registrars included senior statesman Mr Paul Bengo, Lawyer and Judge Sir Kina Bona, Senior Academic and Political Scientist Late Dr Alphonse Gelu. Mr Pok encouraged the staff to work together as a team and to promote the mission vision of the Registry in his term as the Registrar.