By DALCY LULUA
THE Social Democratic Party (SDP) will host a major fundraising event tomorrow as part of its preparations for the 2027 National General Election, with party leader and National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop urging supporters to take the electoral process seriously in shaping Papua New Guinea’s future.
Governor Parkop said the fundraiser is a critical step in building the party’s capacity to contest the 2027 polls and to identify leaders who can provide quality, visionary leadership at the national level.
“This is a very important event for our country and our people. It is part of the process by which we elect leaders who will guide us into the future,” he said.
According to the SDP leader, most of the fundraising tables have already been sold, with around few tables available at a premium price. He acknowledged that campaigning and contesting a national election is costly, noting that political parties require strong financial backing to remain competitive.
“Going into an election is no easy feat. We need all the financial support we can get,” Governor Parkop said.
He reflected on the party’s journey since its formation in 2011, stating that while the SDP has contested the last three national elections, it has faced significant challenges and has not yet achieved the level of parliamentary representation it seeks.
“At one point we were the third biggest party in Parliament, but we were later relegated. Still, we remain patient. We are not a party that does things for convenience. We want to be a party with substance,” he said.
Governor Parkop emphasized that the Social Democratic Party is committed to building a strong policy-based political culture, grounded in values, vision, and quality leadership.
“For too long, PNG politics has lacked strong policy foundations. It’s time we shift towards parties and leaders that are driven by values, sound policies, and a clear vision for our people,” he said.
He added that the SDP does not aim to grow rapidly at the expense of quality, but instead focuses on selecting candidates with strong standing in their communities, regardless of their financial status.
“That is one of our biggest challenges, but it is also our strength,” he noted.
Governor Parkop said the fundraiser will help the party become more competitive in 2027, as all political parties begin gearing up for the national election.
He also reminded voters that while elections are a critical democratic process, the real outcome depends on the quality of leaders elected.
“The process is important, but the outcome is what matters to our people. Good leadership determines whether we achieve a good quality of life, a strong economy, opportunities for our people, and real development in infrastructure,” he said.
He concluded by saying that the SDP is ready to play a greater role in national leadership if given the mandate by the people.
“We are doing our best to be ready for the election. If our people see our merits and values, they can give us a bigger role so we can help deliver the outcomes that Papua New Guineans deserve,” Governor Parkop said.