Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has commended Members of Parliament for passing two major laws that will strengthen Papua New Guinea’s legal and governance systems, describing the outcome as a strong demonstration of Parliament at work.
Parliament passed the Organic Law on the Employment of Judges 2025, which sets out the framework for the appointment, terms of office, conditions of service, and retirement of judges. The law also provides for improved management of the judiciary, including provisions that support expanded judicial capacity and the engagement of additional judicial officers to address increasing caseloads across the courts.
In addition, Parliament passed the Constitutional Amendment (General Provisions for Constitutional Office-Holders) Law 2025, which amends Section 223 of the Constitution to clarify that provisions relating to constitutional office-holders may be governed by both Organic Laws and Acts of Parliament. The amendment also updates key definitions within the Constitution, including provisions that allow for additional judicial roles such as assistant judges.
Prime Minister Marape thanked Members of Parliament from both Government and Opposition for their cooperation and strong attendance.
“I commend all Members of Parliament, particularly at this stage of the parliamentary term, for coming together in strong numbers to pass these important laws,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Over 80 Members of Parliament were present today. This is the kind of commitment our country expects from its leaders.”
He said Parliament must remain focused on its primary responsibility of lawmaking.
“We are not here just to sit and administer district and provincial funds. Our foremost duty is to pass good laws for our country,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape said the passage of the two laws reflects a Parliament focused on strengthening key national institutions.
“Our judiciary must be modern, efficient, and capable of serving a growing and increasingly complex nation,” he said.
“I thank all Members of Parliament, including the Opposition, for supporting these Government bills in the national interest.”The Prime Minister said the outcome demonstrates that Parliament continues to function effectively and remains committed to delivering reforms that will benefit Papua New Guinea now and into the future.