Papua New Guinea operates under a system of government that is based on the separation of powers. This means the government is divided into three branches, each with its own roles and responsibilities. These branches are the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government. The separation of powers is important because it safeguards citizen liberties and prevents tyranny by dividing governmental authority amongst distinct branches. 

The executive arm is responsible for carrying out and enforcing the laws of the country. It is led by the Prime Minister, who is also the head of government. The Prime Minister is supported by the Cabinet, which is made up of ministers chosen by the Prime Minister. Together, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet make important decisions on behalf of the government and oversee the day-to-day administration of the country. The Prime Minister selects Ministers from among the elected Members of Parliament to head government departments. The Prime Minister then recommends the appointments to the Governor General who formally approves them.     

The legislative arm is responsible for making laws. It is led by the Speaker of Parliament and consists of the National Parliament. The National Parliament debates and discusses proposed laws (called bills) before they are passed and oversees government spending and makes sure funds are used properly.

The judicial arm is responsible for interpreting the laws and making sure they follow the Constitution. It is led by the Supreme Court, the highest court in the country. The Supreme Court handles cases involving important legal or constitutional issues and ensures that laws passed by the government respect the Constitution. In addition to the Supreme Court, there are also lower courts like the National Court and District Courts, which handle other legal matters. For this arm of government, the Judicial and Legal Services Commission (JLSC) which is an independent body selects and recommends candidates to be appointed as judges. The judges must have at least five years of experience as a lawyer so they are typically senior lawyers or magistrates with significant legal expertise.  The NEC approves the recommendations and the Governor-General formally appoints the judges. 

Papua New Guinea’s system of government works through these three branches to ensure laws are made, enforced, and interpreted fairly, while also protecting the rights of its citizens under the Constitution.

What do you think would happen if there was no separation of powers in the government?