PANGU Pati has strengthened its internal structures and leadership rules ahead of the 2027 election, introducing reforms requiring leaders to be endorsed through party conventions.
The changes were highlighted during the Pangu Pati National Convention held in Port Moresby, where party officials outlined reforms aimed at institutionalising the organisation and improving internal governance.
Prime Minister and Pangu Pati Parliamentary Leader, James Marape, said the reforms were designed to ensure the party was guided by systems rather than individuals, and that leadership decisions were made through constitutional processes.
He said the party had inserted provisions into its constitution to ensure that no leader had automatic entitlement to continue in office without endorsement from the national convention.
Marape said the reforms reflected the party’s intention to build a stronger political institution that could sustain itself beyond individual leadership.
“Pangu is not about me. It is a party that formed this country. We have a higher standard of conduct in our view than most other parties,” he said.
He said the convention had provided an opportunity for ministers and party leaders to report on progress made during the party’s time in government, as well as outline challenges and future priorities.
Marape said the party’s focus remained on policy development ahead of the 2027 election, with discussions centred on strengthening economic management, improving service delivery and expanding membership across the country.
He also noted that Pangu Pati operates through both parliamentary and non-parliamentary wings, and that efforts were underway to expand grassroots participation across all 22 provinces.
The prime minister said the convention also reviewed the party’s historical performance, including its strong electoral presence in the early years after Independence, its decline in later years, and its rebuilding in recent elections.
Marape said Pangu Pati grew from a small representation in 2007 to 39 members following General Election 2022, describing it as a sign of renewed public confidence.
He said final outcomes from the convention would be released after further internal consultations, while reaffirming that the party remains focused on preparing for General Election 2027 and strengthening its policy direction.
