PM refutes election foul play

Prime Minister James Marape has refuted assumptions of foul play in the national elections, which sees certain candidates and electorates being declared first, without delays.

The Member for Tari-Pori was the first one declared for his electorate, in the last 3 elections.

Marape was responding to questions by North Fly MP James Donald, on how he planned to ensure the upcoming elections are free, fair and transparent, and that the electoral system is strengthened and irregularities are prevented.

The PM added that, any political party with the highest numbers is invited to form government.

He added that in the interest of fairness, the bipartisan committee led by East Sepik Governor Allan Bird is scrutinizing the work of government and the work of Electoral Commission as far as 2027 election planning is concerned.

In response to questions on Pangu Pati’s plans for the future and its achievements since taking office in 2019, Mr. Marape says this will be presented at the Pangu Convention in April.