Papua New Guinea Constitutional & Law Reform Commission - CLRC

08/05/2026

CLRC Advances Underlying Law Mandate Through Jiwaka Custom Recording

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) has successfully completed an intensive two-week custom recording exercise for Jiwaka Province, marking another significant milestone in the Commission’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its special mandate in the development and monitoring of the Underlying Law of Papua New Guinea, as provided under the Underlying Law Act 2000 and the CLRC Act 2004.

Throughout the two-week exercise, CLRC consulted with and documented the customs of the four main language groups in Jiwaka Province. These include the Kuma Language Group (comprising both South and North Waghi Districts, bordering the eastern township of Kudjip); the Eknii Language Group (covering parts of South and North Waghi Districts in the Middle Waghi area); the Melpa Language Group (South Waghi District, bordering Western Highlands Province); and the Narak Language Group (Upper, Middle and Lower Jimi Districts bordering Madang Province).

Participants involved in the custom recording exercise were carefully identified with the assistance of the Jiwaka Provincial Administration. These participants included village elders, village court chairmen, magistrates, peace and good order officers, and respected village leaders.

The customs recorded from the four language groups covered a broad range of customary laws and traditional practices governing leadership and societal structures, family relations, land ownership, sorcery, criminal and civil wrongs, contract arrangements, maritime matters, and other important customary values and practices. The exercise was guided by CLRC’s comprehensive questionnaire framework, designed to ensure all relevant customs were thoroughly captured, documented, and linked to existing gaps identified during the recording process.

As part of the exercise, the Commission also undertook further cultural research to better understand the unique traditional artefacts used by the different language groups and their specific cultural significance, including a special visit to the Koskala Cultural Site in the province.

CLRC is now in the process of refining and vetting the raw information into a legally structured document. Upon completion, the report will be presented to Parliament as a customary law report for declaration as the recognized customs of the respective societies. Once recognized, the courts may apply these customs, in accordance with the Constitution and the Underlying Law Act 2000, in determining cases and progressively developing the principles of the Underlying Law.

Jiwaka Province is the second province selected by CLRC for the custom recording exercise, following the successful completion of the pilot exercise in Central Province. To date, the Commission has completed full documentation of the customs of Central Province, representing a major achievement in CLRC’s broader efforts to develop a truly home-grown Constitution for Papua New Guinea.

CLRC Secretary Dr. Mange Matui underscored the importance of the program, describing it as a national initiative that directly supports Goal No. 5 of the National Goals and Directive Principles, which strongly advocates for Papua New Guinean Ways.

Dr. Matui stated that the exercise reflects the Commission’s continued commitment to ensuring the Constitution and legal system of Papua New Guinea genuinely embody the customs, traditions, and aspirations of ordinary Papua New Guineans.

Image Insert: CLRC Management and Officers with Participants from the 4 main Language Groups in Jiwaka Province posing for a group photo after concluding the 2-week custom recording program.

07/05/2026

CLRC Reviews Wills Probate & Administration Act 1966 and Insolvency Act 1951

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC), under its Colonial Laws Review Program (CLRP), has conducted a comprehensive stakeholder workshop to review the Wills Probate & Administration Act 1966 and the Insolvency Act 1951.

The review of these two pieces legislation falls squarely within CLRC’s mandate under the CLRC Act 2004, which requires the Commission to examine pre-Independence laws and assess their relevance, effectiveness, and suitability in contemporary Papua New Guinea.

Both Acts have been in force for over five decades and are colonial in origin. The Wills Probate & Administration Act 1966 serves as the foundational law governing succession in Papua New Guinea, providing legal mechanisms for the transfer of property from a deceased person to beneficiaries or appointed individuals under both testate and intestate succession.

Similarly, the Insolvency Act 1951, which has its origins in the Insolvency Ordinance 1912, provides for the administration and distribution of the estates of insolvent debtors among creditors, as well as release of such debtors from their liabilities.

Despite their continued application since Independence in 1975, both Acts have not undergone substantial reform to reflect the evolving legal, social, and economic realities of Papua New Guinea.

During the workshop, CLRC identified and presented a number of key issues for stakeholder deliberation, including outdated terminology; provisions referencing colonial administrative structures; obsolete figures such as rates, fees, and timeframes; overly verbose provisions; policy gaps; and sections that have been overtaken by amendments to related legislation.

As part of the Commission’s consultative approach to law reform, key stakeholders and implementing agencies were invited to provide views and recommendations to inform the review process. Participants included the Department of Justice and Attorney General, BSP Financial Group Limited, the Public Solicitor’s Office, Kina Bank, the National and Supreme Courts, the Office of the Public Trustee, and the CLRC team.

Stakeholders provided valuable insights and practical perspectives that will guide the Commission in formulating relevant and effective law reform recommendations.

CLRC Secretary Dr. Mange Matui highlighted the importance of the review process and the Commission’s ongoing efforts to modernise Papua New Guinea’s legal framework.

“As society evolves, our laws must evolve with it. This is why we are undertaking the review of these pre-independence laws.”

He added, “Our laws must also align with current national policies and development priorities.”

Dr. Matui further acknowledged the critical role of stakeholders in the reviewing of these colonial laws.

“CLRC cannot undertake this task in isolation. Your participation ensures that our reviews are comprehensive, practical, and reflective of the realities on the ground.”

He noted that more than 300 colonial laws remain subject to review, and since 2022, the Commission has reviewed a significant number of them with support from implementing agencies. While acknowledging the magnitude of the task, Dr. Matui reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to continuing its engagement with stakeholders.

The ongoing review of pre-independence laws is aimed at ensuring that Papua New Guinea’s legal framework reflects national values and aligns with the aspirations of the National Goals and Directive Principles, as set out in the Preamble of the Constitution of Papua New Guinea.

04/05/2026

CLRC Quarterly Newsletter – Q1 2026 Now Available.

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) is pleased to share its Quarterly Newsletter for the first quarter of 2026.

This edition highlights key law reform activities, stakeholder consultations, and institutional developments undertaken during the period.

Access and download the full newsletter here: https://www.clrc.gov.pg/index.php/clrc-newsletter/

17/04/2026

CLRC Commence Custom Recording Exercise in Jiwaka Province

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) commenced its two-week Custom Recording Exercise in Jiwaka Province, as part of its ongoing efforts to advance its special mandate in monitoring the development of the Underlying Law of Papua New Guinea.

Speaking at the official launching ceremony, CLRC Secretary, Dr. Mange Matui, emphasized the importance of the exercise and the Commission’s crucial role as mandated by law.

“This Custom Recording Exercise reflects our continued commitment to preserving our customs and advancing the development of a truly Melanesian jurisprudence,” he said.

He further added, “Beyond the Commission’s core mandate in law review and reform, CLRC has a special constitutional responsibility under the Underlying Law Act 2000 and the CLRC Act 2004, to monitor the development of the Underlying Law, and provide timely reports to Parliament on the relevance and application of its principles.”

Over the course of the two-week exercise, CLRC officers will engage with key village chiefs and tribal leaders to carefully document customary practices in their authentic form. The customs to be recorded will cover a broad range of areas, including land ownership, marriage, dispute resolution, criminal conduct, mediation processes, and other related matters.

Participants from the four major language groups within Jiwaka Province will be consulted. These include the Kuma Language Group from North Waghi District; the Narak Language Group from Jimi District; the Ekni Language Group from Anglimp South Waghi District; and the Melpa Language Group from Anglimp South Waghi District, bordering Western Highlands Province.

This extensive exercise follows six to eight months of strategic planning and coordination between CLRC and the Jiwaka Provincial Government, ensuring that participants are properly identified, vetted, and possess deep customary knowledge.

CLRC Chairman, Hon. Saki Soloma, reiterated the importance of the exercise, highlighting its relevance to the justice system.

“One of the key steps in fulfilling this special responsibility is the Custom Recording Exercise, where customs are carefully documented, verified, and preserved so they can be appropriately applied by the courts in addressing issues within our communities,” he said.

He further stated, “In time, Papua New Guinea will further incorporate customs into its legal system through the courts. This will ensure that customary laws - practised by our people from time immemorial - are formally recognised and given status alongside common law and equity.”

The Chairman also stressed that the initiative aligns with the National Goals and Directive Principles of Papua New Guinea.

“This program directly aligns with our nationhood aspirations, particularly the Fifth Goal - Papua New Guinean Ways - which calls for respect for customary laws and social structures, and encourages home-grown solutions rather than reliance on foreign systems,” he added.

Jiwaka Province is the second province selected by CLRC for the Custom Recording Exercise, following the successful completion of the program in Central Province in 2025. The Commission now holds comprehensive documentation of customs from Central Province and anticipates similar outcomes in Jiwaka.

The launching ceremony was attended by CLRC Commissioners, the Deputy Governor of Jiwaka Province, the Deputy Provincial Administrator, participants, members of the CLRC team, and locals from surrounding communities.

The Custom Recording Exercise in Jiwaka Province commenced on Thursday 16th April, 2026, and will conclude on 1st May, 2026.

CLRC remains committed to its core mandate in law review and reform. Through this important program, the Commission ensures that its law reform efforts continue to reflect and uphold the customs and values of Papua New Guineans.

02/04/2026

Wishing everyone a blessed and peaceful Easter.

Please be advised that the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) will be closed for the long weekend commencing Friday, 3rd April. Normal business will resume on Tuesday, 7th April 2026.

24/03/2026

Please note that the closing date for applications has been extended to Tuesday, 31st March 2026.

Vacancy Alert❗️

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission invites suitably qualified and interested applicants to apply for the vacant positions listed below. Interested applicants are requested to submit their applications to the address provided.

The closing date for applications is Friday, 20th March 2026 at 4:06 pm.

16/03/2026

CLRC Commissioners Officially Sworn In

Port Moresby, 16 March 2026 – Two Commissioners of the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC), Dr. Dora Kuir-Ayius and Hon. Isi Henry Leonard, MP, were officially sworn in today during a ceremony in Port Moresby.

The swearing-in ceremony was officiated by Principal Magistrate Mr. Billy Pidu, formally administering the oath of office to the two Commissioners.

Dr. Kuir-Ayius has been reappointed for her second term as Commissioner, reflecting her continued contribution and expertise in the areas of social research, anthropology and political science. Hon. Isi Henry Leonard, the Member for Samarai–Murua Open, joins the Commission as a newly appointed Commissioner, bringing vast government experience and valuable perspectives to support the Commission’s core mandate in law review and reform.

CLRC Chairman, Hon. Saki Soloma, congratulated both Commissioners on their appointments and reaffirmed the important role Commissioners play in guiding the work of the Commission.

“The Commission relies on the diverse expertise and perspectives of its Commissioners to guide the review and reform of our laws. We are pleased to have Dr. Dora Kuir-Ayius continue her service and to welcome Hon. Isi Henry Leonard to the Commission.”

He added, “(CLRC) Commissioners play a pivotal role in the operations of the Commission. They oversee CLRC reports, participate in national consultations – particularly on important constitutional directives – provide direction on administrative and financial matters, and contribute their specialized knowledge to advance the Commission’s core mandate in law review and reform.”

CLRC Secretary Dr. Mange Matui also welcomed the Commissioners, noting that their experience and professional backgrounds will strengthen the Commission’s efforts in advancing key law review and reform programs.

“The Commission continues to undertake critical reviews of our constitutional and legal framework. The knowledge, experience and perspectives that Commissioners bring are essential in ensuring our work remains relevant to the needs and aspirations of the people of Papua New Guinea,”

Dr. Matui added, “With the calibre, experience, and leadership of both Commissioners at the Board level, I am confident about the continued progress and future prospects of CLRC.”

CLRC Commissioners serve in a part-time capacity, providing strategic guidance and oversight to the Commission’s law review and reform functions.

Both appointments were made by the Minister for Justice and Attorney General through notice in the National Gazette, in accordance with the governing provisions of the Commission.

Upon swearing in, both Commissioners reaffirmed their commitment and dedication, by pledging to use their specialized knowledge and experience to progress CLRC and the country forward in regards to law review and reform.

“I accept this reappointment, not only as a personal honor alone, but a renewed call to service,” expressed reappointed Commissioner Dr. Dora Kuir-Ayius.

Commissioner Hon. Isi Henry Leonard expressed similar sentiment, “I would like to thank the Government and also the (CLRC) Chairman for appointing me as one of the Commissioners to this very important office that is here. I am truly humbled and honoured to be given this opportunity to serve the people of Papua New Guinea, through this office, CLRC.”

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission continues to play a vital role in strengthening Papua New Guinea’s legal and governance framework, through its core mandate in law review and reform, as stipulated under the CLRC Act 2004.

16/03/2026

Thank you TVWAN News.

Two Constitutional Law Reform Commission Commissioners were sworn in to office in Port Moresby today.

University of Papua New Guinea Senior Lecturer Dr Dora Kuir-Ayius was reappointed, and Member for Samarai-Murua Isi Henry Leonard is newly appointed commissioner.

Read more: https://tvwan.com.pg/news/8693

11/03/2026

Female Staff Empowered Through International Women’s Day.

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC), in a small yet meaningful gathering, marked International Women’s Day under the theme “Invest in Women, Invest in Progress.”

The program was led by CLRC Deputy Secretary for Legislative Services, Mrs. Dorothy Mimiko-Kesenga, who emphasized the vital role women play in society and acknowledged the challenges women all over the world often face while advancing within their respective professional and social spaces.

During the session, discussions centred on key themes such as gender equality, women’s empowerment, respect and dignity, inclusion, and advocacy for positive change.

The open discussions also incorporated biblical perspectives on the theme, encouraging female officers to excel in their respective roles with humility and dedication. Officers noted that such values help nurture leadership qualities not only in the workplace but also within families and communities. Other meaningful conversations reiterated on promoting equal participation, health and mental well-being, ending discrimination and violence, celebrating the achievements of women, and highlighting issues that continue to affect women in society.

CLRC continues to uphold the principles of gender equality and inclusive participation, recognizing the important contribution women make in advancing the Commission’s core mandate in law review and reform. This ensures that Papua New Guinea’s laws remain just and reflective of a Melanesian jurisprudence where the voices of women are heard and respected.

The program concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony to commemorate International Women’s Day.

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11/03/2026

Full Statement by the CLRC Chairman Delivered in Parliament – 10 March 2026.

Second Reading of the Report on the Review of the Form and System of Government.

Yesterday, the Chairman of the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC), Hon. Saki Soloma, MP, delivered a statement in Parliament regarding the Report on Constitutional Directive No. 4 - Review of the Form and System of Government - The Election of the Prime Minister by the People.

Statement:

Mr Speaker,

I rise to contribute to the debate on the Report on the Review of the Form and System of Government, which is now before this Honourable House for its Second Reading.

First, I wish to thank the Prime Minister Hon. James Marape for his leadership and for the support behind the critical review that had led to the report now before this house.

It was an honor and a privilege for me as the Chairman of CLRC to have led the major review on the form and system of the government.

I wish to thank the Government for having the courage and vision to initiate this national review. Reforming the way our country is governed is not an easy task. It requires political will, patience, and a genuine concern for the future of our nation.

Mr Speaker, I stand today to register my support for this report, particularly the recommendations, and why I feel it is the right thing to do.

I strongly feel that the seven terms of reference captured in the report together with their corresponding recommendations on:
Levels of Government; The role of Head of State; Election of the Prime Minister; Electoral Roll Process; Women Representation;
Political Party System; and Parliamentary system are very relevant and pertinent to big questions on the effectiveness of the form and system of our government. Addressing these terms of references have the same rippling effects on addressing the corresponding detailed issues.

This Report was ultimately shaped by the voices of many Papua New Guineans across our country from governors, MPs, provincial administrators, and local-level government leaders to women leaders, church leaders, youth groups and ordinary citizens who share their concerns and grievances with us.

Many people spoke openly about the challenges they see in the way government currently operates. Some were frustrated, some were hopeful, and some simply asked whether the system we inherited at Independence still fits the reality of Papua New Guinea today.

Mr Speaker,

One important message coming out clearly from these report: people want government to work better for them.

People are not interested in complicated structures or political arguments. What they want is simple — they want schools that function, health services that reach their villages, roads that connect their communities, and leaders who can make decisions and carry them through. Basically, they want services to reach them and for them to fully benefit from those services as it is supposed to be.

In many places we visited, people told us that government systems are sometimes too confusing. They said responsibilities are not always clear. One level of government blames another level. Funding delays happen. Projects stop halfway.

These are not new concerns. Honourable Members will know this very well from their own districts.

For example, one of the common concerns people often ask is: “Who is responsible for fixing this road?” or “Which level of government should support this health centre?”

Sometimes even our own local leaders struggle to explain the answer.

Because of this, the Commission looked closely at the structure of our current three-tier system of government. In theory, the system was designed to bring government closer to the people. Even though the system sounded and seemed decentralized, it was more centralized. It has also created overlapping responsibilities and administrative complexity.

For instance, a road project may involve national funding, provincial coordination, and local-level implementation. When one part of that chain breaks down, the whole project is delayed.

The recommendation to simplify the structure of government into a two-tier system with provincial member comprising elected LLG representatives and nominated members is therefore not about removing decentralisation. It is about making decentralisation work better. And with that comes, decentralization of powers and functions.

If responsibilities are clearly defined and fewer layers are involved, decisions can be made faster, funds can move more efficiently, and communities can see results more quickly.

Mr Speaker,

We have also seen during consultations that many Papua New Guineans value stability in leadership.

Development plans take time. Roads, hospitals, schools and economic projects cannot be completed overnight. They require steady leadership and continuity in government policy.

However, our political history has shown that frequent changes in leadership can interrupt development planning. When governments change often, priorities can change as well. Long-term projects sometimes stall while new policies are introduced.

The Commission therefore carefully examined how our political system can promote greater stability while still respecting democratic principles.

The recommendation relating to how the Prime Minister is selected is intended to give voters clearer choices during elections and provide governments with a stronger and more stable mandate to govern for a full term.

When the people clearly understand which party and leadership team they are voting for, the outcome of elections becomes more decisive. Governments can then focus on delivering policies rather than constantly defending their position.

Mr Speaker,

In relation to the role of the Head of State, many citizens expressed pride in Papua New Guinea’s journey as an independent nation. Having reached 50 years of Independence, it is timely to consider whether our Head of State arrangements should evolve to reflect our national maturity and identity.

The recommendation to move toward a non-executive President is intended to maintain the same neutral and constitutional role while allowing Papua New Guinea to symbolically express its sovereignty through a national Head of State.

The President, like the current system, would remain above politics and would continue to safeguard constitutional processes.

Mr Speaker,

The Commission also considered the law-making process in Parliament.

Today, legislation passed by this House can have wide and long-lasting effects on the lives of millions of citizens. Yet in many cases laws must be debated and passed within tight timeframes due to the demands of the parliamentary calendar.

The proposal for a bicameral parliament introduces the idea of a second chamber that can review legislation before it becomes law.

Such a chamber could represent provincial interests and provide an additional level of scrutiny. It would not replace this House, but rather strengthen the overall legislative process by ensuring that laws are carefully examined before implementation.

Many democratic countries use this system to improve the quality of legislation and strengthen checks and balances.

Mr Speaker,

I also welcome the recommendation relating to women’s representation in Parliament.

Throughout the country, women contribute enormously to community development. In many villages, women manage markets, organise health awareness programs, lead church activities and ensure that children attend schools.

Despite these contributions, their presence in national decision-making remains very limited.

The Commission therefore recommended several possible mechanisms such as reserved seats, nominated positions or quota arrangements.

These measures are designed to encourage greater participation until representation becomes more balanced through normal electoral processes.

Many countries have successfully used similar approaches to strengthen inclusive leadership.

Mr Speaker,

The Report also addresses issues within the electoral system itself.

In recent elections, we have seen challenges related to candidate nominations, lengthy court disputes, and delays in confirming results.

These issues can create uncertainty and sometimes lead to tension in communities.

The Commission therefore recommends clearer candidate qualification requirements, improved nomination procedures and faster mechanisms for resolving election disputes.

The goal is simple — elections must produce outcomes that are accepted as fair, transparent and legitimate.

Mr Speaker,

Another key area examined in the Report is the strength of political parties.

Political parties play an essential role in organising ideas and presenting policy alternatives to the public. But when party systems are weak, politics can become unpredictable, and governments may struggle to maintain consistent policy direction.

The Commission therefore recommends measures that encourage stronger party discipline, clearer policy platforms and better enforcement of party laws, as captured in the report.

When parties are stable and policy-driven, voters can make more informed choices and governments can operate more effectively.

Mr Speaker,

Allow me also to acknowledge the support we received from the Government during this review process.

The Government recognised that after nearly fifty years of Independence, it is both responsible and necessary to examine whether our constitutional arrangements are still serving the nation as effectively as they should.

This review is not about rejecting the vision of our founding fathers. On the contrary, it builds upon the strong foundation they created.

Like any system, our form and system of government must evolve over time as circumstances change and as our country grows.

I therefore wish to sincerely thank the Prime Minister and his Government for giving the Commission the mandate and the support needed to carry out this important national task.

Mr Speaker,

The Report before Parliament is the result of careful study, public consultation, and comparative research. We examined how other democratic nations manage similar challenges. We studied both the successes and the lessons learned from other systems.

But in the end, the recommendations in this Report are shaped primarily by the realities of Papua New Guinea.

Mr Speaker,

The reforms proposed in this Report are not simply about present political arrangements. They are about creating a stronger and more effective system of governance for the future of Papua New Guinea.

Mr Speaker,

As this debate continues in this Honourable House, I also encourage all Members to engage with the recommendations thoughtfully and responsibly.

And let us work together to strengthen the system of government that will guide Papua New Guinea into the years ahead.

I thank you.

___________________
Hon. Saki Soloma, MP
Chairman, CLRC
Date: 10/03/2026

Ends//



Insert: CLRC Chairman Hon. Saki Soloma, MP, delivering his statement during yesterday's Parliament Sitting.