O’Neill warns PNG risks flawed 2027 polls without urgent action

Concerns are growing that Papua New Guinea may head into the 2027 General Election unprepared, with former prime minister Peter O’Neill cautioning that delays and inaction could jeopardise the entire process.

 O’Neill warns PNG risks flawed 2027 polls without urgent action

Speaking outside Parliament, the Ialibu-Pangia MP highlighted what he described as a dangerous mix of funding shortages, institutional uncertainty, and security pressures facing the nation.

He singled out ongoing challenges within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, saying they point to wider weaknesses in national security systems that must be urgently resolved.

At the same time, Mr O’Neill said public discourse appears increasingly dominated by sport, particularly rugby league, while serious economic concerns continue to intensify.

“We cannot be celebrating rugby league while the harsh realities of inflation and kina devaluation are continuously impacting the daily lives of our people,” he said.

He emphasised that elections are central to democracy and should be treated with the highest level of importance.

According to Mr O’Neill, the Government must immediately fund the Electoral Commission with K354 million to ensure proper planning and avoid last-minute disruptions.

He also pressed Prime Minister James Marape to strengthen trust in key institutions, including law enforcement and electoral authorities.

The absence of a permanent Electoral Commissioner, he warned, is another major risk that could undermine preparations.

“Time is running out. Without proper leadership and preparation, we risk a failed election marked by instability, violence, and widespread electoral disputes,” he said.