Prime Minister Hon. James Marape is undertaking a brief official visit to Brisbane this weekend to attend a series of high-level engagements focused on strengthening Papua New Guinea’s partnerships in sports and education, while also providing Members of Parliament space to reflect freely ahead of the upcoming motion of no confidence.
The visit comes at a significant political moment, and Prime Minister Marape said his decision to travel is also intended to demonstrate respect for the democratic process and to avoid any perception of exerting undue influence on Members of Parliament.
“There is much political noise in the air, with accusations labelling me a control freak or a dictator,” Prime Minister Marape said. “To respect the integrity of the process, I am deliberately stepping back from close proximity to Members of Parliament so that they can decide freely, without pressure, what is best for the country.”
He said this was not a time for campaigning, but for reflection and fair judgment.
“After six years as Prime Minister, I am placing my record before Parliament and stepping back. I’ve told my caucus, my coalition partners, and all Members of the Pangu Pati that I will not be actively present among them this week,” he said. “Instead, I encourage them to assess both candidates fairly — myself, and the alternative presented by the Opposition, Hon. Sir Peter Ipatas.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged Sir Peter as a senior and experienced leader, and emphasised that Members of Parliament must now exercise their judgment based on conscience and national interest.
During his visit, Prime Minister Marape will be the special guest of the Brisbane Broncos at this weekend’s NRL match against the Wests Tigers — a sign of growing interest in developing a deeper partnership with Papua New Guinea, especially in light of the incoming PNG-based NRL team.
“This is part of ongoing efforts to build strong working relationships in sport as we prepare to introduce our own team into the NRL,” Prime Minister Marape said. “I’m honoured by the Broncos’ invitation and the opportunity to advance this important national initiative.”
He will also meet with officials from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) this afternoon to discuss potential cooperation in education, research, and technology development.
“These meetings are vital for our ongoing nation-building efforts across sectors,” he said. “While I’m away, I want to reaffirm that leadership is not about micromanagement. Contrary to political rhetoric, I trust my ministers and team to continue their duties. Since 2020, we’ve upheld open parliamentary processes during all motions of no confidence — with no lockdowns.”
The Prime Minister highlighted his government’s commitment to equitable service delivery.
“Contrary to some claims, we have been fair to all MPs — both in Government and Opposition. DSIP and PSIP funds have been distributed without bias. A good example is Hon. James Donald, who opened a new terminal funded from DSIP allocations my government approved.”
He reaffirmed that he will return early next week but may also take additional time away once the motion is formally placed on notice.
“I value taking short periods of reflection during moments of political pressure. It helps me reset and return focused. More importantly, I want the country to know that Members of Parliament are making their own choices, freely and in good faith.”