Papua New Guinea To See Mounting Tensions Country-Wide As Elections Near – Analysis
Summary Further disruptions are expected as anti-government protests led by trade unions, civil society groups, NGOs and university students continue to increase political instability in the country. Postponing June’s election has the potential to aggravate tensions to the point a state of emergency may be declared. There is evidence of a proliferation of weapons across the country. Foreign workers will continue to be targeted as the LNG project continues to widen fissures within society and between tribes. Increased criminality in the short to medium term is also likely. Political Analysis The current impasse between factions led by current prime minister Peter O’Neill and deposed prime minister Sir Michael Somare occurs at a time when the fragile central state apparatus is challenged by divisions both within and outside government. This has led to a number of concerns, particularly surrounding the elections, that business operations and the general public are becoming increasing