Pacific

PNG prepares to change Organic Law to ensure stability of government

17:25 pm on 23 June 2003

From Tomorrow, Papua New Guinea's MPs will consider constitutional amendments which include the automatic dissolution of Parliament and calling of fresh elections if there's been a successful vote of no confidence.

The Post Courier reports that the amendment's explanatory notes say if a government loses a no confidence vote, Parliament must be dissolved to allow for a new mandate to be given by the people through an election.

The changes to the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates stem from concerns that party hopping was being used as a way of toppling a government.

No Government in PNG's 28 years of independence has lasted the full five year term.

Other changes to the Organic Law include funds for the maintenance and expenses of the Opposition Office.