Australia's Support During Kaokalam Crisis Goes Beyond Monetary Aid, Says PNG Foreign Minister

 Governor Sasindran Muthuvel of West New Britain,  has written a compelling piece advocating for a fairer political environment in the country. In his written statement, Governor Muthuvel emphasized the critical need to respect the rights of Opposition members and ensure their equal participation in the political process.

Governor Muthuvel pointed out the discrepancy between the theoretical equality of Government and Opposition in the Westminster system and the practical challenges faced by Opposition MPs in PNG. He stressed that both sides of the political spectrum should have an equal opportunity to serve their constituencies and contribute to national development.

In his written address, Governor Muthuvel expressed concern about the prevalent fear among MPs of joining the Opposition, describing it as akin to a "sentence on death row" in PNG's political landscape. He lamented the perception that aligning with the ruling Government is the only path to political survival, calling for a change in this mindset.

Citing recent instances where Opposition Leaders switched sides to gain ministerial positions, Governor Muthuvel underscored the allure of power and benefits associated with Government affiliation. He called for a fundamental shift in PNG's political culture, urging the next Government to allocate funds to the Opposition to ensure a balanced and accountable governance system.

Governor Muthuvel warned against the discrimination faced by Opposition members, who often experience reduced funding, stalled projects, and heightened scrutiny. He argued that such treatment undermines democratic governance and perpetuates corruption, emphasizing the need for fair treatment of all political actors.

Governor Muthuvel reiterated the importance of empowering the Opposition to foster a transparent and effective governance system in PNG. His written statement has sparked discussions about the need for a more inclusive and equitable political system in the country, highlighting the importance of respecting the rights and roles of all political actors.

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Australia's Support During Kaokalam Crisis Goes Beyond Monetary Aid, Says PNG Foreign Minister