The Westminster System in Papua New Guinea (PNG) refers to the parliamentary framework of governance that the country adopted at independence in 1975, modeled after the British parliamentary system. It features a bicameral legislature, consisting of the National Parliament and the Senate, with a focus on representative democracy.
Key elements of the Westminster System in PNG include:
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Parliamentary Sovereignty: The National Parliament is the supreme legal authority in PNG, with the power to make and amend laws.
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Prime Minister: The head of government is the Prime Minister, who is typically the leader of the majority party in the National Parliament.
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Cabinet: The Prime Minister appoints members of the Cabinet from among the parliamentarians, who are responsible for various governmental functions.
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Elections: Members of the National Parliament are elected through a preferential voting system, usually every five years.
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Constitutional Role of the Governor-General: The Governor-General represents the monarch in PNG and performs ceremonial duties, while actual governance is conducted by elected officials.
Overall, the Westminster System in PNG emphasizes accountability, representation, and the rule of law, while also reflecting the country’s unique cultural and political context.