Applying the Common Good In Papua New Guinea

The Papua New Guinea Dilemma: A challenge between Autocracy and Democracy “What is our common Good?”

This short two (2) part statement is made as a summary of all the interactions that have taken place that I had observed in the past few weeks shared in the Whats App Geopolitical Group of eminent leaders, led by Lawyer and Council Mr. Herbert Namani.

Part 1: Why apply the, “Common Good”, the Papua New Guinea way?

Having read the discussions in the Whats App group, I am led to believe that we need to clearly define what we want to make of Papua New Guinea. What do we want PNG to be an autocratic, or a democratic state?

As a case in point, I make reference to Papua New Guinea’s global relationships, and refer one and all to consider the China's Belt and Road Initiative: “An effort to develop an expanded, interdependent market for China, grow China's economic and political power, and create the right conditions for China to build a high technology economy”. This is the focus of the Belt and Road Initiative for and by China.

I note that there is no associated links with any third party that wants to be part of the initiative. It appears to be in the interest of China, and China alone. Given the autocratic approach of operation by the Chinese what does this mean to countries like Papua New Guinea. And so, how does this relate to global events occurring around us in Papua New Guinea? One can also talk about Putin versus Biden, and the war in Ukraine, however the we need to clearly articulate where PNG is heading.

Learning lessons from countries like Sri Lanka and the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea has lessons to learn. Let us not miss the opportunity to learn lessons that can only be good for all Papua New Guineans.

PNG is a lucky country to be developing at the right time to learn the lessons of the past (both national and international) and move on with innovation and development. Understanding that PNG has a national constitution that is clearly aligned to the democratic process of governance and that as citizens of this country everyone must be adamant to protect the constitutional rights as citizens of the country. As in all democracies, all citizens must swear to uphold the national constitution. I am very often alarmed by the lack of nationalism expressed by the so many uncalled-for experiences we are undergoing as we advance our statehood. If only we can put these challenges behind us and truly express the nationalism that each of us can express as true Papua New Guineans.

We must all contribute to making PNG a safe, healthy, wise, democratic and prosperous nation.

It is time that all of us, together; young and old, male and female, educated and uneducated, bring to the table all issues in accordance with the Vision 2050 of the National Government.

I make this statement having had the opportunity to translate the Vision 2050 of the Government to the 2011 – 2020 National Health Plan as the then Secretary for Health.