Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG) has raised concerns about the potential for another electoral disaster in the country, citing inadequate remedial actions following the failings witnessed during the 2022 elections. According to TIPNG, the electoral process during the last election was severely flawed, leading to unprecedented election-related violence.
Having monitored the electoral process for over two decades, TIPNG concluded that problems exist at every stage of the elections, from preparation and conduct to delivery and declaration. The organization reported significant discrepancies in the electoral roll, failure to enforce laws against electoral offenses, disturbances during ballot counting, chaos during the declaration of election results, and an alarming rise in gun violence.
A Special Parliamentary Committee created after the 2022 elections proposed 70 recommendations to improve future electoral processes, but none have been debated in parliament so far. Peter Aitsi, chair of TIPNG, emphasized the need for a sustained five-year electoral planning cycle, warning that issues from the previous elections cannot be resolved with last-minute solutions. With only two years remaining until the 2027 elections, Aitsi urged leaders and officials to take immediate and meaningful action to safeguard this vital aspect of democracy.
Moreover, TIPNG flagged that the recent 2025 budget did not include increased funding for the Electoral Commission, hindering its ability to prepare for elections effectively. Insufficient resources in non-election years threaten not only the integrity of the Electoral Commission but also the credibility of the upcoming 2027 elections.
As Papua New Guinea moves forward, there is an opportunity for leaders to prioritize electoral reforms, enhancing the democratic framework. Addressing these electoral challenges head-on can pave the way for a more stable and trustworthy electoral environment, fostering hope for a smoother democratic process in future elections.
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