By PHILIPPAJOY PAARENU, UPNG Journalism Student
PAPUA New Guinea’s landmark political reform law, the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates (OLIPEC), marked its 25th anniversary on Friday, September 11, with Minister for Administrative Services and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Constitutional Matters Richard Masere calling for bold reforms to strengthen democracy and political stability.
Speaking at the commemoration, Masere reflected on the law’s origins under the late Sir Mekere Morauta, who introduced OLIPEC to institutionalise the country’s political party system and curb political instability.
“The vision was always to build genuine institutions that could manage democratic disagreements constructively,” Masere said. “Stable institutions are essential if we are to deliver real policy outcomes to our citizens.”
He recalled how the National Alliance Party used Section 63 to form government after winning 15 seats in the 2002 elections. The party went on to serve a full five-year term, which was marked by economic growth.
In 2007, the National Alliance was again invited to form government, this time with 27 members.
However, OLIPEC has faced significant legal and political challenges.
In 2010, a Supreme Court ruling, in a case involving Dr Bob Danaya and the Western Provincial Administration, struck down certain provisions aimed at preventing political party switching, declaring them unconstitutional.
Masere said efforts were now underway to revise OLIPEC while preserving its core purpose.
Among the proposed reforms is a requirement for political parties to operate as corporations, with registered offices and permanent accountability under Sections 25 and 26 of the law.
He also announced inter-agency collaboration between the Electoral Commission and the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates Commission (IPPCC) to develop a new code of conduct.
“The IPPCC must promote a national outlook beyond tribal loyalties,” Masere said, stressing the importance of civic education and stakeholder engagement as foundations for political stability.
Masere also acknowledged the support of international partners, including the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in supporting electoral and political reforms.
The 25th anniversary of OLIPEC and the IPPCC marks both a celebration of Papua New Guinea’s democratic reforms and a renewed call to strengthen political institutions for the future.
Masere’s vision places accountability, institutional collaboration and civic education at the centre of efforts to build a more stable and effective political system.