Monday 29 January 2024
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has instructed Administrative Services Minister Hon. Richard Masere to promptly commence the groundwork for the 2024 National Census.
He stressed the urgency of this, given that there has been no proper census done in 2010 and 2020, resulting in no one knowing the actual population figure of Papua New Guinea.
“I have directed Minister Masere to collaborate with the National Statistical Office, in coordination with all provincial administrations, to initiate preparations for a comprehensive head count,” Prime Minister Marape said
“We will be mobilising unemployed youth of our country for this major task over the next six months. “By the end of this year, at the earliest by September 16, there must be preliminary data reflecting the actual population of our country.
We will align the 2024 National Census with the Common Roll Update, laying the groundwork for the 2027 National Election.” Prime Minister Marape also cleared ongoing misconceptions of the new ministry under Minister Masere.
“Minister Masere is in charge of the National Statistical Office and the National Identification Office, while key constitutional offices report to me,” he said.
“Minister Masere – assisting me on key constitutional offices – will ensure that work programmes of key constitutional offices like Ombudsman Commission, Electoral Commission and Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) are given the necessary support.”