PRIME Minister and Pangu Pati leader Hon. James Marape yesterday presided over the first Pangu Council meeting for 2025, acknowledging the leadership of the General Secretary, Morris Tovebae, and President, Erigere Singin, in steering the party forward as the ruling coalition in government.
Speaking at the meeting, Prime Minister Marape highlighted Pangu Pati’s historic role in shaping Papua New Guinea’s political landscape, noting its legacy as the party that led the country to independence and continues to drive national development.
“As the party that received the Section 63 invitation to form government after the 2022 General Elections, Pangu Pati remains committed to delivering on its promises for the people of Papua New Guinea,” Prime Minister Marape stated.
“This year, we celebrate 50 years as a nation and, on 13 June, we also mark Pangu Pati’s 58th anniversary—both significant milestones in our country’s history.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged key regional leaders, including Minister Hon. Soroi Eoi, Minister Hon. Joe Sungi, Minister Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr, Minister Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey, and all other Pangu MPs.
Deputy Parliamentary Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso and Governor of
Southern Highlands Province Hon. William Powi sent their apologies.
Reflecting on Pangu Pati’s deep-rooted history, Prime Minister Marape paid tribute to foundational leaders such as Sir Paul Lapun, Sir Peter Lus, Paliau Moloat, and others who played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s political foundations. He also recognised the generational continuity within the party, citing Minister Tsiamalili and President Singin as descendants of Pangu Pati’s early pioneers.
Prime Minister Marape reiterated Pangu Pati’s ongoing mission to bring meaningful reforms and improvements to the country. “Since joining Pangu Pati in 2019, our focus has been on national reformation. Over the past six years, we have worked to achieve key aspirations, but much remains to be done,” he said.
Acknowledging the challenges of governance, he emphasised the need for a performance
based review of the government’s progress. “We are undertaking a major review of our
achievements and ongoing projects. After Parliament rises, there may be a reshuffle to enhance productivity at both ministerial and bureaucratic levels,” he stated.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s strength and sustainability beyond his tenure.
“Pangu Pati must not rely onany single leader but function as an organic institution guided by its constitution. Our party structure must ensure continuity beyond individuals,” he emphasised.
As Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence, Prime Minister Marape called for Pangu Pati’s active involvement in the national celebrations, recognising the party’s foundational role in nation-building.
“Our 13 June celebration will not just be a party event but a national event because Pangu Pati has no peer in its role in shaping our country. The institutions of state, the Constitution, the three arms of government, the banking system, the Defence Force, the Electoral Commission—all of these were established under Pangu Pati’s leadership,” he said.
The Prime Minister reassured party members of his commitment to the party’s success leading into the 2027 elections and beyond. “Together, we will continue working to deliver the best for our people. The road ahead is challenging, but with perseverance, we will strengthen our party to deliver for our nation.”
