PNG Democracy Can Recover Under New Electoral Commissioner, Says Ipatas

Enga Governor Chief Sir Peter Ipatas

Enga Governor Chief Sir Peter Ipatas says Papua New Guinea has endured too many disappointing elections, but believes the country has an opportunity to restore public confidence following the appointment of Dr Nicole Haley as Electoral Commissioner.

Throwing his support behind the new appointment, Sir Peter commended Prime Minister James Marape and the National Government for selecting Dr Haley to lead the Electoral Commission, describing the decision as an important step towards delivering a more credible electoral process ahead of the 2027 National General Election.

The veteran politician, who has contested six national elections, said he had witnessed the strengths and weaknesses of the Electoral Commission throughout his political career.

He acknowledged that election administration had often failed to meet the expectations of Papua New Guineans, saying the Commission carries the vital responsibility of ensuring every eligible citizen has the opportunity to cast a vote and that every ballot is counted fairly.

Sir Peter said the success of the 2027 election would depend not only on the Electoral Commission but also on the commitment of governments, institutions and communities across the country.

He said adequate funding, reliable systems and strong cooperation from all stakeholders would be essential in delivering an election that earns the trust of the people.

The Enga Governor identified the clean-up of the national voter roll as the immediate priority for the incoming Electoral Commissioner.

He urged provincial governments, district administrations and local-level governments to actively support the ongoing voter registration verification exercise, saying the accuracy of the electoral roll is central to maintaining public confidence in the electoral process.

Sir Peter also acknowledged Acting Electoral Commissioner Margaret Vagi and Commission staff for guiding the organisation during the leadership transition. He pledged the support of the people of Enga in working alongside Dr Haley to strengthen the country's electoral system.

"Having contested six elections over the course of my political career, I have seen first-hand the challenges faced by the Electoral Commission. There have been too many times when its performance has fallen short of the expectations of our people."

"The Commission must be supported with adequate resources, systems, and the cooperation of all stakeholders. Delivering a credible election is a shared national responsibility."

"Papua New Guinea deserves elections that are peaceful, credible, transparent, and trusted by our people. Democracy is strengthened not only by good laws, but by the confidence our people have in the institutions that uphold them."