Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, MP, has commended Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, Hon. Soroi Marepo Eoe, for his leadership in overseeing the resumption of Local-Level Government (LLG) elections across Papua New Guinea, after a prolonged delay since 2017.
Prime Minister Marape expressed his gratitude to the Minister for articulating clear reform measures aimed at strengthening grassroots governance and ensuring that the third tier of government is not only functional but truly representative of the people it serves.
“I commend Minister Eoe for his dedication and clarity in outlining the Government’s continued commitment to reforming and empowering the Local-Level Government system,” Prime Minister Marape said. “These reforms – including putting ward councillors on government payroll, improving candidate eligibility, and strengthening governance at the community level – are all part of our broader vision to take back PNG from the ground up.”
He acknowledged the essential role of LLGs in national development, noting that nearly 80% of the country’s population live and work at the ward and village level.
“If Papua New Guinea is to grow equitably, development must begin in our villages, where the majority of our people live,” he said. “That is why we continue to invest in building the capacity of our LLGs – because real transformation starts at the grassroots.”
Prime Minister Marape also extended his appreciation to the Electoral Commissioner and the Electoral Commission for their work in preparing and delivering this critical democratic exercise.
“I thank the Electoral Commissioner and his team for working closely with the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government to ensure the integrity and success of the 2025 LLG elections,” he said.
“This is not just a technical task – it is a national responsibility that enables our citizens to participate in choosing their community leaders.”
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister appealed to all Papua New Guineans to exercise their democratic rights peacefully and responsibly.
“I call on all citizens to support a free, fair, and peaceful election process,” he said. “Do not allow intimidation, violence, or threats to deny your communities the right to be represented. Failed elections caused by such disruptions will only harm your people and delay services.”
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his government’s commitment to completing the electoral process and ensuring that reforms continue to improve service delivery at the ward and LLG levels.
“The Marape-Rosso Government remains committed to building a transparent, accountable, and people-driven governance system,” he said. “We will continue working with all stakeholders to ensure our LLGs are equipped, resourced, and led by capable individuals who put the people first.
“God bless Papua New Guinea.”