TIPNG: Election prep failure alarm

Transparency International Papua New Guinea [TIPNG] has warned of another potential election disaster in 2027, citing no progress on fixing issues from the flawed 2022 National General Election.

TIPNG, part of the global anti-corruption movement, has observed PNG elections for over 20 years and found major failures in preparation, conduct, delivery, and declarations.

In a statement, TIPNG highlighted key 2022 problems, including errors in the electoral roll, ignored election offenses, disrupted ballot counting, chaotic seat declarations, election violence, and the rise of guns.

The government established a Special Parliamentary Committee on the 2022 General Elections to investigate these issues.

In December 2023, the committee, led by East Sepik Governor Allan Bird, presented 70 recommendations to Parliament, however, these have not been debated or adopted.

“There’s a five-year electoral planning cycle. The issues of 2022 can’t be resolved with last-minute fixes. We’re now two years away from 2027. What are we doing to protect this crucial democratic pillar?” TIPNG Chair Peter Aitsi questioned.

TIPNG also criticized the 2025 national budget for allocating just K15.6 million to the PNG Electoral Commission [PNGEC], saying it is inadequate to prepare for the next election.

"This lack of funding is a serious threat to the integrity of the 2027 elections," Aitsi said.

TIPNG is urging Parliament to immediately adopt the committee's recommendations and prioritize proper funding for election reforms and preparations, noting that without action, the nation's democratic process remains at risk.