Distinguish political parties from pressure groups

A POLITICAL party is usually defined as an organisation of voters adhering to common principles and seeking to control the government.
Outsiders often complain that they find it difficult to distinguish between many small political parties of PNG, which appear to support similar policies.
Some have concluded that all parties such as the NA and T.H.E parties’ labels are simply vote-catching arrangements manipulated by professional politicians seeking the spoils of office.
How does one distinguish between a political party and a pressure group?
Organised pressure groups actively take part in campaigns and publicly endorse and support certain candidates or parties.
Often, they urge their members to contribute to campaign funds of favoured candidates.
Pressure groups usually work through the regular party machinery and have a potent voice in the selection of candidates.
The primary difference between a party and pressure group is found in their aim; parties seek largely to capture offices while pressure groups mainly strive to influence policies.
Not all PNG political parties have a definite membership.
Persons may be considered members because they register and as such, regard themselves as members or pay their dues and hold membership places or cards.
Papua New Guineans must be wise and not let political parties with the aim of achieving self-interests or pressure groups that aim to influence policies dictate your voting powers.
Many of our problems lead to political and economical instabi­lities due to greedy and selfish leaders.
The coming election is very important and its outcome will determine the future of our lives, the nation and the next generation.

Eric Mumson Piuk
Port Moresby