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 Papua New Guinea’s Parliament has been ordered to reconvene following a Supreme Court ruling in favor of an application filed by Deputy Opposition Leader and Member for Chuave, James Nomane. The court’s directive instructs the Speaker of Parliament to reconvene the House on April 8, 2025. This decision is being viewed as a pivotal moment for reinforcing judicial authority and ensuring constitutional procedures are upheld in the nation’s political system.

The legal challenge was initiated after the Private Business Committee rejected a Vote of No-Confidence (VoNC) motion filed on November 27, 2024, which named Enga Governor Peter Ipatas as the alternative Prime Minister. Frustrated by the lack of approval, James Nomane filed a Section 18 (1) reference with the Supreme Court to question the constitutionality of the committee’s decision. In its verdict, the court declared the committee’s actions unconstitutional, citing breaches of Sections 50 (1) (e), 111(1), 142 (5), and 145 of the Constitution. It further ruled that Section 165 of the Standing Orders, as it applies to motions of no confidence, is unconstitutional and inconsistent with these constitutional provisions.

Deputy Opposition Leader and Member for Chuave, James Nomane

Prime Minister James Marape, who was briefed on the court’s decision by Vice Minister for Justice and Attorney General Francis Alua upon his return from Wabag and Kiunga, confirmed that the government respects the Supreme Court’s ruling. Speaking during a press conference, Marape emphasized that the coalition government and the Pangu Party fully support the judiciary’s authority and the rule of law. He stated that the Clerk of Parliament, Kala Aufa, had been served a copy of the court’s decision, which mandates the recall of Parliament to address the VoNC motion. Marape assured the public that the government will comply with the court’s order, highlighting its commitment to democratic governance and constitutional processes.

Parliament is set to convene on April 8, 2025, as directed by the court. The Private Business Committee will meet the following day to deliberate on the motion, which will then be placed on the Notice Paper. After a brief adjournment, lawmakers will reconvene on April 18 to vote on the two candidates: incumbent Prime Minister James Marape and Sir Peter Ipatas, the Opposition’s nominee as per the November 27 motion. Marape reiterated that the government will respect the outcome of the parliamentary process, allowing democracy to take its course.

Political analysts have praised the government’s acceptance of the court’s ruling as a significant step toward maintaining stability in Papua New Guinea. By choosing not to contest the decision, the administration has demonstrated respect for the country’s legal framework, reinforcing public confidence in its institutions. This move is seen as crucial in preventing further political tensions and fostering an environment conducive to constructive dialogue. Analysts also noted that the ruling underscores the judiciary’s role in upholding constitutional processes and maintaining checks and balances in a functioning democracy.

James Nomane, who spearheaded the legal challenge, expressed satisfaction with the court’s verdict and called on Members of Parliament to act decisively. He emphasized that he has fulfilled his responsibility by initiating the process and urged lawmakers to seize this opportunity to bring about leadership change. According to Nomane, the current government has led the country into decline, and it is now up to Parliament to restore stability and progress for the nation. 

Prime Minister Marape, meanwhile, continues to focus on governance, having recently launched major infrastructure projects, including the K70 million Kiunga Airport redevelopment and the K600 million Enga Provincial Hospital. He was joined by key leaders such as Health Minister Elias Kapavore, Governor Peter Ipatas, and former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill.

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Families Across Papua New Guinea Benefit from Air Niugini’s Discounted Nambawan Fares for Graduation Travel