PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape has acknowledged and commended the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) Student Representative Council (SRC) for their mature and constructive approach in addressing important national issues as raised in their recent press statement.
The Prime Minister noted that the students have rightfully exercised their democratic rights by questioning the 2025 Amendment to Section 145 of the Constitution, the National Executive Council (NEC) Amendment Act 2025, and the Counter-Terrorism Act 2024.
Prime Minister Marape emphasised that student voices are important in the country’s ongoing journey towards good governance, democracy, and national progress.
“I commend the students for their maturity and commitment to addressing these issues in a peaceful and intellectual manner. The approach they have taken to seek a Supreme Court review through the Ombudsman Commission demonstrates their respect for constitutional processes. The court is a fair place for all grievances to be resolved, and their petitioning for clarity on whether these laws are in the country’s best interest is welcomed,” Prime Minister
Marape stated.
He reiterated that the three laws in question are not intended to promote dictatorship or empower a single person to control the nation, contrary to claims made by some opposition figures. “The PM and NEC Amendment Act 2025, for example, is designed to enhance transparency, good governance, and due process. Its purpose is to ensure that
the National Executive Council operates effectively and responsibly, promoting democracy instead of concentrating power within one office,” he added.
Regarding the Section 145 Amendment, Prime Minister Marape clarified that it does not eliminate the right to exercise a Vote of No Confidence. Instead, it aims to prevent frivolous attempts by those without the required numbers, while still allowing legitimate motions to proceed.
On the Counter-Terrorism Act 2024, the Prime Minister explained that the law addresses the increasing threats of lawlessness throughout the country, including crimes such as kidnapping, rape, gun violence, and domestic violence, which cause widespread fear and terror. He assured the public that the law is not intended to establish a dictatorship but
rather to address these pressing security concerns.
“Members of Parliament, in their wisdom, passed these laws to secure our nation’s future. The legislative process was thorough, with all necessary certifications, vetting, and drafting procedures completed by the relevant state agencies before presentation to Parliament,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The Prime Minister also noted that his government is willing to engage in constructive dialogue with the students and other stakeholders to address concerns about these laws.
He reaffirmed that the Ombudsman Commission, as an independent constitutional office, is welcome to take the matter to the Supreme Court for its deliberation.
“I encourage constructive dialogue and engagement on these matters. As we approach the 50th anniversary of our nation’s independence, it is crucial that all voices are heard, and that our democratic principles are upheld. I have no issue with the matter being brought before the Supreme Court, as it is within the students’ constitutional rights to
question the laws passed by Parliament,” Prime Minister Marape concluded.