GRASSROOTS LEADERS DESERVE GREATER SUPPORT – GOVERNOR RAINBO PAITA CALLS FOR PAY INCREASE
Parliament House, Port Moresby
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Morobe Governor Hon. Rainbo Paita has called on the National Government to review and increase the allowances paid to Ward Councillors across Papua New Guinea, proposing an increase from the current K300 to K1,000.
Speaking during Questions Without Notice in Parliament, Governor Paita emphasized the vital role Ward Councillors and Ward Recorders play in communities throughout the country. He said these grassroots leaders are often the first point of contact for people seeking assistance and are instrumental in delivering government programs and services at the local level.
Governor Paita noted that despite their important responsibilities, many Ward Councillors and Ward Recorders continue to work with limited support and inadequate remuneration. He stressed that improving their pay and recognizing the contribution of Ward Recorders would help strengthen local-level governance and improve service delivery nationwide.
He further highlighted that empowering grassroots leaders is essential to ensuring government policies and development initiatives effectively reach communities, particularly in rural and remote parts of the country.
The call has sparked discussions on the need to better support those working closest to the people and serving as the foundation of community leadership across Papua New Guinea.
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