Sir Michael Thomas Somare was born on 9 April 1936 in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea. He was of Papuan cultural heritage and was raised in a Catholic household. He received his education at the Administrative College in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.
"Father of the nation"
Sir Michael Somare was a prominent Papua New Guinean politician who played a crucial role in the country's journey to independence from Australia.
He was widely known as the "father of the nation" and served as Papua New Guinea's first Prime Minister after independence in 1975.
He held the office of Prime Minister for a total of 17 years over three separate (non-consecutive) terms:
from 1975 to 1980;
from 1982 to 1985; and
from 2002 to 2011,
Making him the longest-serving Prime Minister in the history of Papua New Guinea.
Throughout his political career, Sir Michael Somare held various positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Leader of the Opposition, and Governor of East Sepik Province.
He was a founding member of the Pangu Party, which led Papua New Guinea into independence, but later resigned from the party and became an independent politician in 1988.
He rejoined the Pangu Party in 1994 but was eventually sacked as a leader in the following year.
He was then asked to join and lead the National Alliance Party.
Sir Michael Somare awards
Apart from his political achievements, Sir Michael Somare was also recognized with several awards, including the
Knight/Dame Grand Cross of the Order of Saint Michael and Saint George,
Knight of the Order of St Gregory the Great,
Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu, and
Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun (Japan).
Sir Michael Somare passed away on 26 February 2021 at the age of 84 in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, due to pancreatic cancer.
He left a significant legacy as a respected leader and statesman who played a pivotal role in shaping the history of Papua New Guinea.
James Marape emerged as a key player in the political landscape of Papua New Guinea in 2019 when he successfully orchestrated a Vote of No Confidence against the then Prime Minister Peter O'Neill.
Marape, who had been the finance minister under O'Neill's People's National Congress (PNC) Party for 8 years, cited "trust issues" as the main reason for his resignation from the government. This move set off a chain of events that ultimately led to Marape becoming the Prime Minister of PNG.
Let's take a look at the chronological order of events that unfolded in April and May 2019, as recorded in this article on PNG Insight.
CLICK HERE TO READ THE LATEST ON THE MAY/JUNE PARLIAMENT SITTING.
James Marape's Resignation
In April 2019, James Marape resigned as the finance minister and member of the PNC Party, citing "trust issues" with Prime Minister Peter O'Neill as the main reason for his decision.
Marape, a young leader known for his smooth-talking approach, had the admiration of both young and old MPs in the parliament, which set the stage for a potential change in leadership.
Vote of No Confidence Motion
Following Marape's resignation, a Vote of No Confidence (VoNC) motion was tabled in the parliament on May 7, 2019.
Marape was seen as a driving force behind the motion, which aimed to remove Peter O'Neill as the Prime Minister of PNG.
The motion was supported by a coalition of opposition MPs and some defecting PNC members who cited "trust and confidence" issues in O'Neill's leadership.
Moves to Deter the Vote of Confidence
In the lead-up to the VoNC, there were several moves by the government to deter the successful passing of the motion.
This included attempts to offer big promises and large sums of money to MPs to sway their votes, as well as seeking legal interpretations and delaying tactics to validate the technical aspects of the VoNC.
The Speaker of the parliament, who was perceived to be aligned with the government, also played a role in this strategy.
VoNC Voting Session
The actual VoNC voting session was initially scheduled for 7 days after the tabling of the motion, but was later extended to 21 days by the parliament privilege committee.
Finally, on May 28, 2019, the voting session took place in the parliament.
Marape's strategic moves and the support of opposition MPs and defecting PNC members resulted in a successful passing of the motion, and Peter O'Neill was ousted as the Prime Minister of PNG.
James Marape Becomes Prime Minister
Following the successful passing of the VoNC motion, James Marape was elected as the new Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea.
His strengths as a former finance minister, his support from both young and old MPs, and his reputation as a smooth-talker were key factors that contributed to his rise to power.
Marape's government promised to address issues such as corruption, resource development, and social services, and he pledged to be a leader for all Papua New Guineans under the banner 'Take Back PNG' with the political slogan 'Make PNG the Richest Black Nation'.
Future Vote of No Confidence in PNG
As Papua New Guinea anticipates future votes of no confidence, the events that unfolded in 2019 provide insights into possible strategies and moves that may be employed by MPs and political parties.
This includes attempts to sway votes through promises of money and other incentives, seeking legal interpretations and delaying tactics, and the role of the Speaker in the process.
However, the outcome of a VoNC ultimately depends on the numbers and consensus among MPs, as well as the leadership and strategic skills of the candidates vying for the position of Prime Minister.
PNG Changing Political Landscape
The events that unfolded in the lead-up to the vote of no confidence in Papua New Guinea in 2019 serve as a reminder that politics is a constantly evolving landscape.
For those who are anticipating the next vote of no confidence in PNG's prime minister, the events of 2019 offer several valuable lessons.
Firstly, the role of money and promises cannot be understated in swaying the opinion of MPs.
Secondly, legal interpretations and technicalities can be used as delaying tactics, and it is important for both sides to be aware of this possibility.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the outcome of any future vote of no confidence in PNG will depend on a range of factors, including the strength of the opposition's candidate, the loyalty of MPs, and the political manoeuvring that takes place behind the scenes.
Only time will tell who will emerge victorious in the next vote of no confidence, but one thing is for certain - it will be a closely watched and closely contested event.
Watch this brief overview of the past and present PNG prime ministers.
A three-year (2022-2024) Salary Fixation Agreement has been signed to increase the pay of PNG public servants. The agreement provides for a general increase in the Public Service Performance Based Salary Structure or PBSS.
The increase comprises two parts over the three-year period:
an increase of 1.5% generally across the board, plus
Schedule 1: PNG Public Service implementation of pay increase 2019 - 2022
Schedule 2: PNG Public Service implementation of pay increase 2022 - 2023
Schedule 3: PNG Public Service implementation of pay increase 2023 - 2024
Does the Pay Increase Include Teachers?
There is confusion that PNG teachers are not included in this pay rise. However, the Public Service minister, on 17th March 2023, clarified that teachers are Public Servants and they are also included in the pay rise.
If you have any questions about the 'PNG Public Service implementation of pay increase 2023 - 2024', call the Department of Personal Management (DPM) on 3276309, 3276392, 3276336, 3276373 or 3276403.
With the economy nose-diving, the country drowning in debt and O'Neill Government facing a serious cashflow crisis, many Papua New Guineans are struggling to survive.
Article by Bryan Krammer.
Tax in PNG: Workers Pay 34% in Tax
Many PNG workers have questioned why they are taxed so much? I explained taxes are necessary to ensure essential services are provided to the people.
For example, policing, judiciary, correctional services, hospitals, and education to name a few, are all funded by tax collections.
The real problem is that corrupt politicians only end up mismanaging and misusing (stealing) these funds to enrich themselves and their cronies.
They become overnight millionaires on the people's hard-earned tax money.
MPs Pay Only 5% in Tax
However, after making inquiries into just how much salary and wages tax Members of Parliament pay versus ordinary workers, I was shocked to discover that workers pay up to 34% in wages tax while a Government Minister is taxed as low as 5%.
For instance, let's say a worker's gross wage is K400 a fortnight where his employer provides him a company vehicle and medium-cost housing.
Their wages would be calculated as follows:
Gross Wage K400.00
Add Taxable Vehicle Allowance K125.00
Add Taxable Housing Allowance K400.00
Total taxable salary & wages = K925.00
Tax on K925.00 = K135.20
Their net take-home pay would be K264.80 (actual pay K400 less tax K135.19).
Average PNG Worker Pays Over 40%, GST Included
What is alarming is that the average Papua New Guinean worker whose gross pay is over K900 can expect to lose up to 30% of his pay in taxes.
Not to mention a further 10% GST when he spends it at the store on goods and services.
Meanwhile, Members of Parliament, Government Ministers, and the Prime Minister are paid tens of thousands every fortnight and only pay between 5%-13% tax.
Members of Parliament Pay
Gross fortnight pay K14,600
Less K1,280 tax and K668 retirement benefit
Net take-home pay K12,600. (Wage Tax represents only 8%.)
Government Ministers Gross fortnight pay is K25,400
It is interesting to hear Union leaders who have close associations with Government Ministers publicly announce they do not support the one-day boycott on Friday, yet very silent about their workers' welfare.
What is absurd is that these Union leaders feed from the workers' contributions just like Politicians are paid by taxpayers' money only to end up stealing from them.
As a Member of Parliament, it would be one thing to be paid well if we actually earned our wages by running the country properly.
The justification is the sharp increase in the cost of living (CPI).
What is absurd is that the O'Neill Government is responsible for the sharp increase in the cost of goods, so Members of Parliament may give ourselves a pay rise but what about the rest of the country who essentially pays for our wages.
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Post and image: Facebook/Bryan Kramar
An article by B. KRAMAR outlining the high tax paid by PNG workers in October 2018 - was reposted.
New teachers and those who do not know how you are paid, you are paid up Scales of 1 - 12 (TS1 – TS12) and across Grades 1 - 7. In other words, you move up the Pay Scale and along the Pay Grade. It can happen simultaneously or one at a time.
A review of teachers’ salaries conducted in 2013 agreed to a 33% rise in base pay over three years, 2014 - 2016. The increment came at the back of an increase in the number of students and teachers increased workload; as well as the increasing prices of goods and services. The increment was, in fact, an agreement set in stone and effective as of the first pay of 2014.
By now all teachers, from preprimary to primary and secondary schools, should be paid the agreed salaries at 2016 rates.
An additional Service Allowance of 10% was also accorded to teachers and matured in 2016. This additional increase means that between (and inclusive of) 2014 and 2016 teachers’ total salaries (TOTAL SALARY = BASE SALARY + SERVICE ALLOWANCE) increased by 43%.
Teachers, perhaps it is important to know your pay scale and pay grade. Knowing the two will help you to determine whether you are receiving the right salary or not. The diagram shows the increase – take particular note of 2016 salaries.
#PNG teachers' salary scale: by now all teachers nationwide should be receiving the correct pay package according to the agreement. pic.twitter.com/nVVCBP9NdY
The Teaching Service is now accountable to teachers after the three years, 2014-2017. The TSC has got to do its work right. At the moment, two questions needed answers from the commission, TSC:
1.Are the teachers paid at 2016 pay grade?
This is a serious question and only teachers and school administrators know whether they received the promised increase or not. Make it your agenda in school staff meetings. Confirm your pay scale and pay grade. Make sure you are paid your dues.
If you are sitting on a confirmed position (by this I mean a confirmed pay scale and pay grade); and not paid the right amount, raise it immediately and asked for a back payment.
Note: Do not waste your time if you are acting on a substantive level. Do not try to claim at that pay scale as you will not be entertained.
This review has to be considered urgent. It is already overdue. The TSC, Education Secretary and Education Minister (in the new government after the June elections) must make it their number one priority.
Having said that, the TSC commissioner and Education Secretary should initiate the review NOW. They shouldn’t wait. Another 3-year review (2018-2020) has to be swiftly done and submitted to the new education minister as soon as s/he is appointed to the role in the new government.
All in all, increasing the price of goods and services and overcrowding in classrooms; capped off with a mountain of work, teachers deserve another pay increase. TSC must think right – take the lead, and urgently initiate a review of teachers’ salaries, service allowance and leave entitlements.
Papua New Guineans are eager to know how much their Members of Parliament (MPs) are earning every fortnight, as taxpayers who fund their salaries.
Two articles on MPs' annual salary have gained significant attention on PNG Insight, with one dating back to December 2014 and the other to January 2015.
It is well known that MPs in Papua New Guinea are among the highest-paid public servants, along with other well-to-do officials like the Chief Justice and Chief Secretary.
Here, you'll find the base pay of MPs and calculate see much each MP would have earned every fortnight, based on the 2010 base pay and the over 80% increments over six years until 2016.
It's important to note that this calculation does not include allowances, perks, and privileges that MPs are entitled to, and only reflects their base salary.
Do PNG MPs need another pay increase?
So, the question arises: do MPs really need another pay increase? Let's examine the figures in the table below, which speak volumes:
The 111 MPs in Papua New Guinea share over K15 million (Kina) every year, which amounts to over half a million Kina every fortnight.
The Prime Minister earns the highest salary among MPs, making them likely the highest-paid public servant in the country, surpassing even the Chief Justice.
Provincial governors are at the bottom of the MPs' pay scale, earning five times less than the Prime Minister, at nearly K3000.00 every two weeks.
PNG Deputy Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader Salaries
The Deputy Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader earn approximately the same base pay. Nearly half (47.53%) of the total pay goes to the 33 government ministers.
At the current salary rate, over K75 million will be paid to these 111 MPs in the next five years.
This information sheds light on the significant earnings of Papua New Guinea MPs and raises the question of whether they truly need another pay increase.
It's worth considering whether these earnings are justifiable, especially in comparison to other public servants and the overall financial situation of the country.
PNG MPs Salaries increase with allowances and benefits
The information presented here only reflects the base salary of MPs, without accounting for the many allowances and benefits they receive as part of their roles.
While it's important to consider the work and responsibilities of MPs, it's also important to weigh their earnings against the overall financial situation of the country and the needs of its citizens.
The data presented here clearly show that MPs in Papua New Guinea are some of the highest-paid public servants in the country, with the Prime Minister earning the most.
Provincial governors, on the other hand, earn the least, which raises questions about the equity of pay distribution among MPs.
SomePNG MPs are significantly more valued than others
Nearly half of the total pay goes to government ministers, which suggests that some MPs are significantly more valued than the rest.
It's worth considering whether this pay distribution is fair and equitable, or whether it reinforces existing power structures and hierarchies within the government.
Final words...
In conclusion, this information provides valuable insight into the earnings of MPs in Papua New Guinea and raises important questions about pay distribution, equity, and the overall financial situation of the country.
As taxpayers, it's important for citizens to stay informed about how their money is being spent and to hold their elected officials accountable for their decisions.
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K530, 000 - money shared by 106 MPs (60 govt. MPs & 46 opp. MPs) one day parliament sitting.
In Papua New Guinea (PNG), there have been many reforms taking place in various government departments, such as health and education, which have placed a significant burden on the implementers, including teachers.
While there have been pay increases for teachers in recent years, the same cannot be said for Members of Parliament (MPs), who seem to be getting raises almost every year.
This article aims to explore the issue of MPs' salaries in PNG and question the need for frequent increases while lower-level public servants struggle.
Reforms and Burden on Implementers
The reforms in PNG, particularly in the fields of health and education, have been challenging for those tasked with implementing them.
Teachers, in particular, have been under immense pressure due to limited resources and increased workloads.
These reforms are aimed at improving the quality of education and healthcare services in the country, but the burden on the implementers cannot be ignored.
Pay Increase for Teachers
In 2013, there was commendable news for teachers as a pay increase was announced by Dr Puka Temu, the Public Service Minister in the government of Peter O'Neill.
However, this increase was backdated to January 2013 and paid just before Christmas, which raised eyebrows among the public.
The question then arises: why do MPs get frequent raises while other public servants have to wait for years for an increase?
MPs' Frequent Raises
A closer look at the history of pay increases for MPs in PNG reveals a concerning trend.
In November 2010, Sir Michael Somare's government unanimously approved a massive 52% pay rise just before Christmas, which was followed by another 7% increase in November 2013, backdated to January 2013.
These frequent raises for MPs raise questions about their necessity and whether MPs truly deserve such increases.
Unjustified Increases
It is hard to understand why MPs in PNG receive such frequent raises, especially when lower-level public servants, such as teachers and health workers, struggle with limited salaries.
The massive increases in MPs' salaries sustain their lavish lifestyles, but do they really need these raises?
The government has also announced separate increases for public sector workers, including MPs, but it is unclear whether this increase applies to community school teachers and community health workers.
Have a look at what teachers in countries like Fiji are getting compared to PNG teachers.
Comparison of Salaries
A comparison of the salaries of MPs and lower-level public servants in PNG paints a stark picture.
Prime Minister, Speaker of Parliament, DPM, and Opposition Leader earn significantly higher salaries compared to classroom teachers, government ministers, and provincial governors.
In fact, the average salary of a PNG classroom teacher is compounded to be only K21,525 for the year 2014, while MPs earn much higher salaries.
Final words...
In conclusion, the issue of MPs' salaries in PNG raises concerns about the frequency of raises and the disparity between the salaries of MPs and lower-level public servants.
While reforms are taking place in various government departments, and public servants, particularly teachers, are burdened with increased workloads and limited resources, it seems unfair for MPs to receive frequent raises to sustain their lavish lifestyles.
It is time for the government to reconsider the justification for these raises and ensure that lower-level public servants are also fairly compensated for their hard work.
