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In a scathing critique, Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane has accused Prime Minister James Marape of sidelining Papua New Guinea’s worsening law and order crisis in favor of pursuing the nation’s bid to join Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL). Nomane’s remarks come amid mounting public concern over rising crime rates, including a spate of violent murders targeting young women and girls in Port Moresby.

 PNG Deputy Opposition Leader Slams PM Over NRL Focus Amid Escalating Crime Crisis

Nomane expressed outrage at what he described as misplaced priorities by the government, suggesting that the Prime Minister’s enthusiasm for securing an NRL franchise reflects a disconnect from the pressing issues facing the country.

“As our nation mourns yet another wave of senseless and brutal killings, particularly of vulnerable women and children, the Prime Minister proudly touts his NRL ambitions as his crowning achievement since taking office in 2019,” Nomane stated. “This is not leadership; it is negligence.”

The Chuave MP highlighted escalating levels of violent crime across the country, including armed robberies and horrific homicides, as evidence of a society in decline. He argued that such trends underscore a broader moral and societal breakdown, exacerbated by ineffective governance.

“This is more than just a security issue—it’s a reflection of a skewed national psyche. While our people suffer, our leaders seem preoccupied with sports deals instead of addressing the root causes of our problems,” Nomane remarked.

He further challenged the rationale behind linking rugby league with national development, questioning whether the sport could realistically address critical challenges like unemployment, inflation, crime reduction, or debt repayment.

“What empirical evidence supports the claim that NRL will improve law and order? Will rugby create jobs, stabilize the economy, disarm criminals, or bring peace to our streets? The answer is unequivocally no,” he asserted.

Nomane attributed the deteriorating situation to years of poor governance, flawed policies, and indecisive leadership under Marape’s administration. He pointed out that despite being in power since 2019, the Prime Minister has failed to deliver tangible improvements in public safety.

“If he were truly capable of leading and making tough decisions, we would see progress by now. Instead, here we are in 2025, watching our nation spiral deeper into chaos,” Nomane said.

With PNG’s youthful population growing rapidly alongside high unemployment and unchecked lawlessness, Nomane warned of an impending social catastrophe. He urged the government to shift its focus from distractions like the NRL bid to implementing practical solutions.

“The youth bulge poses a significant risk—a ticking time bomb. Our people are tired of empty promises and superficial rhetoric. As we mark our Golden Jubilee year, our leaders must chart a meaningful path forward rather than perpetuate this cycle of failure,” he emphasized.

Nomane also took aim at the Prime Minister’s recent calls for accountability within the cabinet, demanding immediate consequences for underperforming ministers. Specifically, he singled out Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr., whose tenure has coincided with a protracted law and order crisis.

“The Prime Minister himself called for accountability earlier this year. Yet, despite ongoing failures in national security since 2022, the Police Minister remains in his post without delivering results. Why does political convenience outweigh the national interest?” Nomane questioned.

He called for Tsiamalili’s dismissal, arguing that the minister’s inability to curb escalating crime rates renders him unfit for the role.

“The Police Minister should be removed immediately. Enough is enough,” Nomane declared.

His comments echo concerns raised recently by Lands and Physical Planning Minister Lino Tom, who warned that PNG risks descending into chaos if urgent action is not taken.

“If brutal murder becomes normalized, then we are on a collision course with disaster. The Prime Minister must act decisively before it’s too late,” Nomane concluded.

As tensions rise between the opposition and the ruling party, many citizens are left wondering whether their leaders will prioritize the nation’s welfare over personal or political agendas. For now, the debate underscores the widening gap between public expectations and governmental performance in one of the Pacific’s most complex nations.

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