Citizens have right to vote without influence

VOTING is a fundamental right of citizens in any representative democracies.
That has been systematically deprived in Papua New Guinea for many years since independence.
A person with higher political or societal status seems to manipulate the system, thereby, infringing the basic premise of people’s choice to determining the mandate.
This has been the norm and most people are unaware of their rights and privileges as citizens of this democratic nation.
Every individual, regardless of ethnicity, race, gender or societal status have this basic right under Section 50(1) of the Constitution to vote and stand for public office.
This seems an easy thing to address, but its consequences are depressingly fatal.
It has been the root of systemic and systematic corruption.
It serves as the foundation of all norms of public misconceptions in our society.
The people must understand the basics of governance and principles of our democracy.
All lawlessness issues that escalate and continue to cause more casualties are consequences of these misconceptions.
And it takes helm during national elections.
It has to be taught nationwide in public education that everyone has this basic right to vote any candidates of their choice without intimidation and pressure from anyone or any aggrieved groups.
Also, all candidates who seek candidacy for public office and political parties can freely do their campaign conventions to the public at the designated period by law.
We believe that one day PNG citizens will vote in a transparent election process and mandate given to candidates who win the polls, forthwith.
We need to do more awareness and educate our people about the basics of our political system and their place in it as citizens.
Hereby, we announce that we will conduct an awareness (volunteers) within the National Capital District, Port Moresby, to educate our people about their rights and the importance of their voice in the general election with emphasis on the nation’s current political and economic status.
All patriotic citizens are welcome to join.
This season comes every five years and change comes in five years time.
Where will you be in 2027?
This will be your service for a country you love at such a transitional season in the nation’s political history.
This is a challenge especially to the young people.
Let us do our bit to change the status quo by educating our people at the level we can.

Kingsford Noah Yakapun
Activist