MOROBE Governor Renbo Paita has called for a significant increase in the remuneration of local-level government (LLG) councillors, arguing that their current fortnightly allowance of around K300 is insufficient given their responsibilities.
Speaking in Parliament, Paita suggested that councillors’ pay should be raised to about K1,000 per fortnight to better reflect the demands of their role, which includes community leadership, attending to deaths, social obligations (“haus krai”), and other village-level duties. He stressed that the current pay level makes it difficult for councillors to meet basic living costs while serving their communities.
Paita also raised concerns about ward recorders, describing them as essential grassroots officials responsible for maintaining vital community records such as births and deaths. He noted that many of these workers are not formally included in the government payroll system and called for their recognition and financial support.
The governor acknowledged the government’s efforts to strengthen provincial and LLG systems, thanking Prime Minister James Marape’s administration and Attorney General Pila Niningi for supporting measures to formally recognize councillors on payroll structures.
He concluded by urging continued reforms as Papua New Guinea marks its 50 years of independence, emphasizing that while national leaders are adequately supported, greater attention must be given to strengthening and properly compensating leaders at the local level.
Amazing call Governor Hon.Paita.
We Councillors are the foundations of the National and Provincial Governments and we should decive the such.
When the provincial affairs minister paying the ward councilors ,their k280 0r k300 payment.
What about we the out going councilors .
Are we going to get our finish pay for serving seven solid years as a word member?
Awesome call by the action Governor for Morobe. Your call for ward councilors and ward recorders to be paid must be supported by all members of Parliamentr.
Amazing call governor hon Paita we the ward recorders we are very important role person in the communities through us the national event especially national and llg election happen successfully but we are still vorrintary.