PNG PM Marape Hails Supreme Court Ruling as Win for Stability

 Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision upholding the constitutional amendment on motions of no confidence, describing the ruling as a major victory for political stability in the country.

The Supreme Court dismissed a challenge against Constitutional Amendment No.48, ruling that the law is valid and consistent with the Constitution. The amendment prevents repeated motions of no confidence from being filed after an earlier attempt has failed in Parliament.

PNG PM Marape Hails Supreme Court Ruling as Win for Stability

Mr Marape said the decision would allow governments to focus on long-term development priorities without constant political disruptions.

“The Court has now made it absolutely clear that Section 145(5) is constitutional and consistent with the spirit of responsible government envisioned by our Constitution,” Prime Minister Marape said.

He said the amendment was not designed to protect one individual leader but to strengthen stability for future governments and generations.

“This decision is not merely about one political case or one Prime Minister. James Marape will not be here forever. This amendment is for the long-term stability of Papua New Guinea and for future governments that will continue to benefit from this law, just as we continue to benefit from good laws passed before us.”

Mr Marape pointed to Papua New Guinea’s political history, saying periods of stable leadership had delivered stronger economic growth compared to years marked by frequent changes of government.

“In the first 27 years of our nationhood, from 1975 to 2002, Papua New Guinea changed governments 13 times. During that period, economic growth was slow,” he said.

“In the last 23 years, when the country had only three Prime Ministers, our economy experienced its fastest growth. These are historical facts tied directly to political stability and continuity in government.”

The Supreme Court also ruled that concerns raised by Opposition Leader James Nomane had already been addressed in previous court decisions.

Mr Marape stressed that constitutional provisions allowing a Prime Minister to be removed through a vote of no confidence still remain available if the government loses majority support.

“The safety mechanism remains fully intact,” he said.

“If the majority of leaders no longer have confidence in a Prime Minister, the constitutional process for removal remains available.”