By DALCY LULUA
PRIME Minister and Pangu Pati Leader Hon James Marape clarified that the party has not yet begun selecting candidates for the 2027 National General Elections.
He explained that a fair and transparent process will be established before any endorsements are made.
Speaking at a press conference today, Marape said no individual or group has the authority to select candidates at this stage, dismissing any suggestions that endorsements are already being considered ahead of the party’s upcoming convention.
“We are not selecting candidates as yet. No one is allowed to select candidates,” Marape said.
He stated that the convention is to establish the framework for endorsements, including identifying electorates where the party will field endorsed candidates and outlining the qualities expected of aspiring contenders.
“The process through this convention will put forward which seats we endorse, which seats we do not endorse, and the types of candidates we are looking at,” he said.
Marape urged those intending to contest under the Pangu Pati banner in the 2027 elections to wait for the official endorsement process to be announced.
“For those who want to run with Pangu Pati right across the country, we ask you to hold back your applications, and there will be a fair process for everyone,” he said.
The Prime Minister assured aspiring candidates that even those who do not receive official endorsement will remain part of the party’s network and database.
He said all applicants would be treated fairly throughout the process and encouraged broad participation from those interested in contributing to the party’s vision and values.
Marape described Pangu Pati as a national institution founded on the principles of unity, independence, inclusion and service, adding that the upcoming convention would help renew those values for the next generation.
“Pangu Pati is not only preparing for the next election. We are preparing for the next generation of leadership, unity and development for Papua New Guinea,” he said.
The Pangu Pati convention is expected to outline the party’s strategic direction and establish the process through which candidates will eventually be endorsed ahead of the 2027 National General Elections.