PNG’s People’s Reform Party Names Allan Bird as New Leader

Former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has issued a strong statement, calling on Prime Minister James Marape to step down, saying the people of Papua New Guinea have lost confidence in his leadership.

O’Neill recalled his own resignation in 2019, explaining that despite his PNC Party winning 29 seats in the 2017 elections, he stepped aside when it became clear the people no longer supported him. He said it was necessary for the stability of the nation and the credibility of governance.

 Peter O’Neill Urges PM Marape to Resign, Citing Public Demand for Change

The Ialibu-Pangia MP said the decision to resign was not easy, but it was made after consultation with leaders including the late Sir Michael Somare and Sir Julius Chan. He added that stepping down allowed due legal process to address corruption allegations without interference from political power.

O’Neill said Marape is now facing the same situation, with widespread dissatisfaction and growing calls from citizens demanding change in national leadership. He said the country is in “dire straits” and the current Prime Minister’s continued leadership will not deliver the recovery people need.

He emphasised that resignation is not an act of defeat but one of courage, and said Marape could still contribute to the nation in other ways outside the role of Prime Minister.

O’Neill also urged Pangu Pati and its coalition partners to take heed of public sentiment, noting that their political reputations are suffering by holding on to power despite the clear discontent of citizens.

He concluded by saying Papua New Guinea must embrace the “winds of change” before national stability is further undermined.

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PNG’s People’s Reform Party Names Allan Bird as New Leader