Change Election of PNG Prime Minister: The election of the Prime Minister in Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been a subject of debate for some time. There are concerns that the current system of electing the Prime Minister by Members of Parliament (MPs) is NOT representative of the people’s aspirations.
In response, the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) has proposed a change to the system, where the people of PNG would directly vote for the Prime Minister.
Here is what you need to know about this proposal.
Current System of Electing the Prime Minister
Currently, the Prime Minister is elected by MPs who are chosen by the people during the general election. However, there have been concerns that this system has led to the election of Prime Ministers who are not necessarily representative of the people’s wishes.
Critics argue that the current system has led to one-party dominance and backroom deals, which have undermined transparency and accountability in the selection of the Prime Minister.
CHange Election of Prime Minister in PNG
The proposed change would see the people of PNG directly electing the Prime Minister. The proponents of this change believe that this would enhance democratic governance and give the people a more direct say in who becomes the Prime Minister.
The proposal was put forward by the CLRC and has been the subject of public consultations throughout the country to gather feedback and views from the citizens of PNG.
Supporters of the Proposal
Supporters of the proposal argue that direct elections would lead to greater accountability and transparency in the selection of the Prime Minister and reduce the likelihood of corruption and vote-buying.
They argue that this would enhance the legitimacy of the Prime Minister and provide a mechanism for the people to hold their leaders accountable.
Critics of the Proposal
Critics of the proposal argue that direct elections would be costly, logistically complex, and may not necessarily lead to better governance outcomes.
They argue that direct elections would require significant resources to organise and conduct, and could divert resources from other important areas such as health and education.
They also argue that direct elections could lead to the election of populist leaders in populated regions who may not necessarily have the necessary experience or qualifications to lead the country effectively.
Decision-making Process
The final decision on whether to adopt the proposed changes will be made by the PNG Parliament.
If the changes are approved, they would require constitutional amendments to be made, which would also require approval by a two-thirds majority of the Parliament.
The proposed changes would need to be put to a referendum for approval by the people of PNG.
Here are 4 key takeaways
- The proposal to change the election of Prime Minister in Papua New Guinea (PNG) aims to improve the country’s governance structure and ensure that it is best suited to the country’s needs and aspirations.
- The proposed changes include the adoption of a federal system of government where power is shared between the central government and the states or a hybrid system that combines elements of the parliamentary and presidential systems.
- The consultations currently underway in PNG aim to provide an opportunity for citizens to engage in the process of constitutional reform and express their views on the future of governance in the country.
- If the proposed changes are approved, they will lead to significant constitutional amendments and a referendum for approval. It is hoped that the changes will lead to greater stability and accountability in the country’s governance structure.
Proposal to Change Election of PNG Prime Minister
The proposal to change the election of the Prime Minister in PNG has generated debate, with supporters arguing that it would enhance democratic governance and provide greater accountability and transparency.
Critics argue that direct elections could be costly and may not necessarily lead to better governance outcomes.
The final decision on whether to adopt the proposed changes will be made by the PNG Parliament, which will consider feedback received during the public consultations before making a decision.
