UN Secretary-General António Guterres Arrives in PNG Amid Concerns Over Democracy
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, marking the first visit by a UN Chief to the country. Mr. Guterres and his delegation arrived today for a four-day program that will also take them to Mt Hagen, Wewak, and Nuku.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Mr. Guterres has been invited to address Wednesday morning’s session of Parliament. His presence is seen as a historic occasion, coinciding with Papua New Guinea’s preparations to mark its 50th Independence anniversary later this month.
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| UN Secretary-General António Guterres Arrives in PNG Amid Concerns Over Democracy |
However, the visit has drawn political reaction at home. Former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, Leader of the People’s National Congress Party, said the UN Secretary-General’s trip is “strategically timed” and reflects the international community’s growing concern over the state of PNG’s democracy.
Mr. O’Neill pointed to what he described as systemic failings in recent years, including the 2022 National General Election, where less than half of eligible citizens voted and more than 100 petitions were lodged in court. He further highlighted the failure to conduct the 2024 Local Level Government elections, leaving key democratic processes in uncertainty.
Citing international findings, O’Neill noted that the 2024 V-Dem Index now categorises PNG as an “Electoral Autocracy,” while The Economist’s Democracy Index scored the country 5.97 out of 10. He said these reports demonstrate that Papua New Guinea’s democratic reputation has already been downgraded in the eyes of the global community.
“These are the measures the UN looks at—not the words of corrupt political leaders,” O’Neill stated. “The visit is because PNG is recognised globally as a failing democracy. We should not pretend otherwise.”
The former Prime Minister said the UN Secretary-General’s address to Parliament should be regarded not as a ceremonial event but as a warning.
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