Southern Highlands Governor William Powi convened the first Provincial Executive Council (PEC) meeting for 2026 today, focusing on formalizing local-level leadership and setting a collaborative tone for his administration’s term.
The key order of business at the meeting, held at the provincial headquarters, was the swearing-in of all recently elected Local-Level Government (LLG) Presidents.
The ceremony was notable for the attendance of the province’s full complement of national parliamentarians, presenting a rare public display of political cohesion. Among them were high-profile figures including Ialibu-Pangia MP and former Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill; the Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, Pila Niningi; Nipa-Kutubu MP and Minister for Defence, Dr. Billy Joseph; and Mendi Munihu MP and Vice Minister for State Enterprises, Raphael Tonpi.
Governor Powi expressed his satisfaction with the turnout, singling out the collective presence of the district leaders. He praised the political leaders from each district “for always showing unity,” suggesting a deliberate attempt to foster a cooperative environment for provincial development.
“The attendance shows our collective commitment to serve the people of Southern Highlands,” Governor Powi stated.
In a move to consolidate the provincial executive, the PEC elected a Deputy Governor from within its ranks. The assembly chose South Wiru LLG President, Dickson Lama, for the role.
During the meeting, Governor Powi issued a direct call to action, urging the newly sworn-in LLG Presidents and the sitting Members of Parliament to set aside political differences and work as a single team.
“We must work together to bring development to the province,” he emphasized, highlighting the critical link between stable local governance and effective service delivery.
The Governor also took time to acknowledge the efforts of the Southern Highlands Provincial Administration and the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission for their roles in conducting what he described as a peaceful LLG election in the province.
He framed the successful local election as a positive foundation for the larger electoral test ahead.
“We can build from this and have a peaceful election in the 2027 National General Elections,” Powi said, subtly addressing the history of electoral challenges in the province.