Port Moresby, 22 March 2025 — Papua New Guinea’s government currently maintains a large roster of ministers, vice ministers, and assistant ministers—a situation drawing increasing scrutiny from political analysts, civil society, and governance experts.
Critics argue that the ballooning number of political appointments is not driven by genuine administrative needs but reflects the ongoing failure to implement constitutional provisions on provincial autonomy. The PNG Constitution envisioned devolving significant powers and resources to provincial governments, enabling them to manage sectors such as education, health, and economic development locally.
Instead, central government agencies in Port Moresby continue to exercise tight control, prompting the creation of numerous ministries to oversee areas that could otherwise be managed by provinces. This has resulted in bureaucratic inefficiency, duplication, and increased public expenditure on political office holders.
Governance experts point to more decentralized federal systems, such as Australia’s, which operate effectively with fewer federal ministers because states govern local affairs. They call for PNG to streamline its national government structure by fully empowering provinces and reducing ministerial positions accordingly.
“This would not only cut costs but also bring decision-making closer to the people,” said a political analyst familiar with PNG’s public sector challenges.
Calls are mounting for urgent reforms to realize the constitutional promise of provincial autonomy, strengthen local governance, and create a leaner, more accountable government.
The debate continues as PNG strives to improve service delivery and governance ahead of its 50th independence anniversary.