Papua New Guinea: Authorities maintaining increased security near Parliament House in Port Moresby as of Aug. 9

Event

Authorities have increased security near Parliament House in Port Moresby as of Aug. 9 for the first sitting of the 11th Parliament. Papua New Guinea Defense Forces and police have erected checkpoints at the roundabouts at either end of Independence Drive; only elected members can enter parliament grounds. Staff at nearby government offices, such as the National Court House and National Library, can still attend work, but employees must have appropriate identification and undergo vehicle searches. Localized traffic disruptions are possible in the vicinity. Officials plan to maintain the heightened security posture until members form a government.

Context

Security personnel are on heightened alert during the first sitting of the new legislature as counting continues in some 14 electorates. The Election Commission extended counting for those seats until Aug. 12. However, as more than 80 members were elected and constituted a quorum in parliament, a court ruled that the current sitting was constitutional amid opposition challenges. Pangu Parti, led by James Marape, won at least 36 seats in the general election, and the governor-general invited them to form a government. Pangi Pati and its alliance members won 80 of 118 seats in parliament, indicating that the formation of the next government will occur quickly.

Advice

Unless working nearby, consider avoiding areas near Parliament House through at least Aug. 9 due to possible transport disruptions. Use alternative routes to circumvent the affected area and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations. Follow all official instructions.