Prime Minister James Marape has commended the Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea for upholding the fundamental principles of the separation of powers and the independence of Parliament in its ruling on SCCA No. 1 of 2025. The Supreme Court, in a unanimous decision delivered by Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika, Justice Cannings, Justice Hartshorn, Justice Kariko, and Justice Dingake, refused an application filed by Opposition MP James Nomane seeking an interim order to prevent Parliament from deliberating on a proposed constitutional amendment relating to Votes of No Confidence (VONC) in the Prime Minister. Mr. Marape welcomed the decision, stating: “The Supreme Court has once again demonstrated its vital role as the guardian of our Constitution. The ruling reinforces the principle that Parliament must be allowed to function independently in its legislative role without undue interference from the courts, in line with Section 115 of the Constitution.” He said the court ruled that it lacked jurisdiction to restrain Parliament from debating and voting on the proposed Constitutional Amendment (Motion of No Confidence Law) 2024, which seeks to introduce an 18-month restriction on successive Votes of No Confidence. The ruling reaffirmed the freedom of speech, debate, and proceedings in Parliament, as enshrined in Section 115(2) of the Constitution. PM Marape further urged all Papua New Guineans, including leaders, to respect the decisions of the courts and allow the judicial process to resolve disputes rather than resorting to unlawful actions or political instability. “As leaders and citizens, we must allow our democratic institutions, including the courts and Parliament, to function as intended under the Constitution. Any legal matters, including Votes of No Confidence, should be resolved through proper legal channels. We must respect the courts and not take the law into our own hands,” the Prime Minister emphasized. He reassured the people that his government remains committed to governing with transparency, accountability, and constitutional integrity, ensuring that the democratic process is upheld. Mr. Marape reiterated that his government will continue to respect and uphold Parliament’s legislative independence, working within the framework of the Constitution to ensure stability, development and the rule of law in Papua New Guinea. “This ruling sends a clear message that the institutions of government must operate within their constitutional boundaries. We will continue to ensure that our democracy remains strong, our governance remains transparent, and our nation moves forward in unity and stability,” said Prime Minister Marape.