20/07/2025
PNG GOVERNMENT SYSTEM.
🔹 1. Understanding the Different Governance Levels.
Papua New Guinea has what is commonly referred to as a "three-tier system of government":
1. National Government
2. Provincial Government
3. Local Level Government (LLG)
But over the years, new layers have been introduced that complicate the structure:
District Development Authority (DDA) – Introduced by the District Development Authority Act 2014.
Proposed Chief System or "Chiefancy Act" – Not yet but can be brought forward for for formal recognition of customary authority.
So yes — now we’re looking at a de facto fourth or even fifth tier of governance, which causes confusion and overlaps in roles.
🔹 2. The DDA vs. LLG Power Struggle
The DDA is chaired by the local MP, giving a lot of executive and funding power to Members of Parliament.
The LLG and its councillors are elected representatives closest to the people, but have little to no funding or real decision-making power now because DDAs dominate local development.
So, in reality:
🔹 3. What About the "Chiefancy Act"?
As of now (July 2025), there is no national law officially called the “Chiefancy Act” passed in Parliament.
But some provincial governments (like Central) are attempting to formally include chiefs into governance, often for reasons like:
-Customary land matters
-Mediation
-Restoring traditional authority
This movement is not illegal but not yet a fully constitutional governance structure either.
So, it's not yet a lawful "fifth tier" government, but it's becoming a powerful informal layer, especially where LLGs are weak or ignored.
🔹 4. Can We Abolish the DDA or Chiefancy Act?
Short answer: No, not directly. But here are the legal and political facts:
Only Parliament can abolish or amend the DDA Act.
The Chiefancy system, if not a formal law yet, can still be challenged or questioned in terms of its role and legality.
🔹 5. Is the LLG System Bad?
The LLG system is not bad, but it has been:
Undermined by the DDA structure.
Underfunded and ignored by both MPs and Provincial Governments.
Politically disrespected, especially when MPs deal only with chiefs or their own loyal groups.
Yet, LLGs are constitutionally recognized — councillors are elected and should legally have a seat at the table for district planning.
âś… Final Summary & Suggestions
Governance Layer Legal Status Power Level Issues
LLG Councillors Constitutional Weak Underfunded, sidelined by DDA
DDA National Law (2014) Very Strong Overlapping roles, centralised power
Chiefancy Act Not yet passed Informal Growing Unclear roles, could disrupt balance
Provincial Govt Constitutional Mid-level Can’t override national laws
SUGGESTIONS FOR LLG LEADERS:
1. Advocate for LLG Reform: Push for review of the DDA Act and restoration of powers to LLGs.
2. Demand Inclusion: Insist that councillors are part of DDA planning meetings (Section 33 of DDA Act allows this).
3. Question the Chiefancy Process: If Chiefs are to be part of governance, they must work with, not instead of, elected councillors.
4. Organize a Forum: Consider a Goilala LLG Leaders Forum to raise collective concerns to the Governor and MP. Etc
I am very vocal on the LLG Government System and still pushing and Hopping for the Better.
Source: Casmiro Maia , Councilor - Ward 5, Tapini LLG, Goilala District, Central Province, Papua New Guinea .
