Prime Minister James Marape has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all Members of Parliament for their dedication and commitment during the last two weeks of Parliament sittings, describing their efforts as “monumental” and “historic.” Mr. Marape praised the bipartisan effort of Members from both the Government and Opposition who endured long hours of debate to pass crucial laws ahead of the 50th Anniversary, aimed at strengthening Papua New Guinea’s governance framework and enhancing social stability. “I wish to thank all Members of Parliament who, whether the public noticed or not, have been sitting through lengthy sessions over the last two weeks. We have been passing significant and essential laws that will guide and safeguard our nation as we approach 50 years of independence,” PM Marape said. Among the landmark bills passed were: 1. Constitutional Amendment to Define PNG as a Christian Country: This amendment provides absolute clarity in defining Papua New Guinea as a Christian nation within the framework of the Constitution. 2. Constitutional Amendment on Section 145: This amendment provides for an 18-month grace period before votes of no confidence can be moved, enhancing political stability and governance continuity, without removing VONC provisions. 3. Income Tax Reforms: Reforms aimed at providing greater economic relief and fairness to taxpayers, while ensuring revenue collection remains robust 4. Petroleum Resource Authority Act: A critical piece of legislation aimed at improving resource governance and ensuring Papua New Guinea benefits equitably from its natural resources. PM Marape commended the unity and dedication displayed by all Members of Parliament, both from the Government and Opposition benches, for debating and contributing to the passage of these important laws. “I have been in Parliament since 2007, and I have never seen such dedication and commitment from Members of Parliament. They have all, on both sides of the House, shown dedication by debating bills rigorously and working together to pass good laws. Some laws were opposed, which is part of our democratic process, but it is also a testament to the vitality of our democracy,” Mr. Marape said. He acknowledged that just as the founding fathers of Papua New Guinea sat down 50 years ago to lay the foundational framework for the nation, today’s Parliament is similarly laying down the legal framework necessary to guide PNG into its next 50 years. The PM also highlighted that the Government’s legislative agenda will continue, with the May sitting of Parliament expected to address issues around law and order. Planned amendments to the Criminal Code will impose heavier penalties on serious crimes, including domestic violence, abuse of women and girls, littering, and loitering. “These are part of the necessary adjustments we must make to secure our nation while empowering our police, courts, and government systems to function effectively. We are not only preparing for the next 50 years, but we are also reconstructing our systems to ensure a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Papua New Guinea,” PM Marape stated. The Prime Minister reiterated his appreciation for all Members of Parliament and encouraged them to continue their dedication towards building a safer and more robust nation.